Members of the local American Legion POST #122 and The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #7623 hosted a Memorial Day observance Monday morning at the 303 Building downtown Smithville.
Commander Edward Frazier moderated the program, Chuck Olson offered the opening prayer, and Doyle Smith led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. The group “4 the Lord” entertained with gospel and patriotic music.
Warren Johns, the guest speaker, spoke of the brave service of patriotic heroes past and present. “There’s more than 150 veterans of service to their country who live in this county walking in our midst. They don’t talk about their record in military service because they beat their swords into plowshares.. They marked a trail of goodness and leadership in this town. No amount of thanks, no amount of praise, no amount of words, can ever appropriately honor what they’ve done. But there are some things we can do. We can make sure their years after service are well cared for and that once a year at least we come to honor them and that’s what we’re doing today. Secondly, we can walk in their trail to try to fill the big footsteps they have left for us. And not just for us, but for our children and our grandchildren who are inspired by their example. Finally, just a week ago, one of the aldermen introduced the idea of naming our airfield “Veterans Field”. I’m sure it will pass. That will honor every one of you.”
At the conclusion of the program, a wreath was laid at the veterans memorial monument outside the courthouse.
Archived News & Obituaries