Community Corner

Memorial Day Ceremony Prompts Reflection on Holiday's True Meaning

Observance included taps and flag retirement, reading of historic speech and Bill of Rights, and the village president asking all to remember the people who defended our freedom with their lives.

During the Memorial Day Ceremony at Knopf Cemetery Monday, attendees were reminded the holiday should not be viewed as a three day weekend or an excuse to throw a party-but rather to remember and respect those who have died for our freedoms.

The cemetery is owned by Kingswood United Methodist Church, who organized the Memorial Day event. 

Buffalo Grove President Jeff Braiman made a poignant speech, asking for solemn reflection when contemplating the real meaning of the holiday.

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“We need to refocus this day on those who have died protecting our country-to preserve the legacy of this day,” Braiman said. “We cannot forget that brave men and women fought and gave their lives to preserve our way of life.” 

The Opening Flag Ceremony initiated the 45-minute observance and began with the retirement and replacement of the flag raised during last year’s
ceremony, by members of Boy Scout Troop #401.

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One scout who participated in the program agreed people may need to
be reminded about why Memorial Day is so special.  

“We all need to remember to pay respect for those who protected our country when we needed it most,” said John Anaszewicz, Troop #401 senior patrol leader.

The ceremony also included the reading of the Gettysburg Address by
Boy Scout Peter Hart and Jeremy Copenbower-also a member of troop-recited the Bill of Rights.  

The playing of taps and the conclusion of the flag retirement ceremony then followed. 

The retirement of the flag consisted of Boy Scouts Vijay Nullutla, Adam Wagner, Hart and Anaszewicz methodically and ceremoniously cutting off each of the thirteen red and white stripes and burning them separately. 

The blue square area of the flag containing the 50 white stars was laid on the fire last to conclude the ceremony. 

“I feel the whole reason behind Memorial Day can get lost-being in Boy Scouts helps to remind us of the importance of this day and how we must
respect the sacrifices made for us” said Michael Anaszewicz, Boy Scout Troop #401 activity leader.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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