The American Legion’s Walker- Wilson Post 9 in Eureka Springs hosted its annual Memorial Day Service on Monday, May 29, as post members and others gathered to remember military personnel who gave their lives in service to America.

Ceremonies opened with the presentation of the colors by the post’s Honor Guard and a prayer led by post chaplain Ferguson Stewart.

After the pledge of allegiance, the Star-Spangled Ensemble and director Sharon Parker led the singing of the National Anthem.

Roy Tronnes, commander of the post’s color guard, placed the POW/ MIA flag over an empty chair directly in front of the podium before post commander Tom Mischo delivered the commander’s address.

Mischo told those in attendance about the 26 American military cemeteries in 17 foreign countries, whose citizens “adopt” the grave of fallen American service members. At the Normandy Cemetery in France, Mischo said, volunteers collect sand from Omaha Beach on June 5 each year and rub it into the names on each tombstone so that they can be read clearly on June 6, the anniversary of the D-Day invasion that led to the liberation of France.

Mischo quoted Adlai Stevenson II, who said: “True patriotism is not manifested in short, frenzied bursts of emotion; it is the tranquil, steady dedication of a lifetime.” Mischo also quoted John F. Kennedy: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.”

After Mischo’s remarks, the Star-Spangled Banner performed a musical tribute featuring patriotic hymns.

The guest speaker was Dr. Jimmy Martin, pastor of First Baptist Church of Eureka Springs.

Martin said he never served in the military, but he expressed appreciation and gratitude for the veterans in attendance.

“Although I cannot officially give you a right hand over the brow salute in a military sense, I can give you a profound salute of love and gratitude for your service to our country,” Martin said.

Martin also referenced John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Martin read a poem he composed based on a story he was told by a veteran. In the poem, Martin describes a soldier cut down by a sniper’s bullet the day before he was to return home.

“They served,” Martin said. “They served with honor. They served with glory. They served bravely. Nothing withheld, but all to give for their country and for their God.”

After Martin spoke, first vice commander Mark Pepple led a POW/ MIA remembrance that was followed by a rifle salute by the Honor Guard and the playing of Taps by Chuck Irvin.

Stewart offered the benediction before Pepple called on Parker to lead attendees in singing “God Bless America” to close the service.