American Freedom Is Not Inherited, But Purchased, Officer Karr Says

“While many see Memorial Day as the start of summer, or just an extra day off from work, we know better,” said Tony Karr, guest speaker for a special event held at the American Legion Post 642 on Monday at 10:30 a.m.

“We know that today is something sacred. A day off for celebration, but also for remembrance. A day to stand still in a world that sometimes seems to move too fast,” said Karr, SPD’s Officer of the Year,” and remember those who no longer walk among us.”

The event was moved indoors to avoid the cool, cloudy breezy weather outdoors. Crown Hill Cemetery is where the event is normally held.

“We are reminded that our freedom is not something that we just inherited. It was purchased. Bought and paid for by generations of Americans who took up arms, took the oath, and gave something, so that we can live in peace and safety. Some of those men and woman never came home. Their journey ended on the battlefield. Others returned, but carried the world with them the rest of their lives. And many now lie in cemeteries across the country,” Karr said.

“Memorial Day is not about the living, it is not about me, or anyone else here who returned from service. It is about those who did not,” Karr stated.

“It’s about the thousands of brave souls, known and unknown, whose last breath was spent in defense of something greater than themselves,” Officer Karr said. “They are the reason we’re here. Their sacrifice is the foundation of American freedom.”

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Post Commander George Sheperd welcomed those in attendance Monday, while Chaplain Dr. Nicholas Gray led the Invocation and Benediction for the occasion.

Smith-Cotton JROTC posted the Colors, while Taps was performed immediately following a 21-gun salute by VFW Post 2591 (outdoors).

The laying of wreaths was performed by Vera Harrison and Wayne Miller (WWI), Jane Stewart and Donnie Salmons (WW2), Lee Whitehed and Breanna Borts (Korea), and Cliff McBride (all other conflicts).

In the top photo: SPD Officer Tony Karr delivers his Memorial Day address, while American Legion Post Commander George Sheperd listens on Monday at American Legion Post 642 on Monday morning.