Americans Have Responsibility To Remember

Memorial Day 2022 was observed by three Veterans organizations, including American Legion Post 642, VFW Post 2591 and the 40 & 8, at Crown Hill Cemetery on Monday morning.

40 & 8 Chef de Gare Cliff McBride was the guest speaker for the event.

“Today is not a happy day,” McBride said. “Today we want to stand by those families (who lost a loved one in battle). We want to remember that sacrifice … Today we remember those heroes who died. Those heroes who didn't come back."

McBride told the crowd attending the ceremony that they have a responsibility to make sure those who did not come home did not die in vain.

“It is up to us ... it is up to the next generation to uphold the elements of the Constitution of the United States,” he said, “to make sure it is fulfilled.”

Following McBride's speech, several red, white and blue wreaths were placed near grave markers on Veteran's Memorial Drive honoring the war dead from World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, and all other conflicts.

American Legion Post 642 Adjutant Paul Bennett served as emcee for the ceremony, AL Post 642 Chaplain George Shepherd gave the opening and closing prayer, and Sedalia Mayor Andrew Dawson led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Civil Air Patrol cadets presented the Colors. And VFW Post 2591 provided a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps.