Lexington, Neb. — Lexington residents turned out on Memorial Day at the Heartland Museum to honor brave service members who selflessly gave their lives to protect the freedoms Americans hold dear. U.S. Army Veteran Mike Zarate served as master of ceremonies…
“We honor the memory of those who gave their lives in the service of our county and of those who have dropped their burdens by the wayside of life and are gone to their eternal rest.” Zarate said, “Let us renew our pledge of loyalty to our country and its flag. Let us resolve by word and deed to emphasize the privilege and duty of patriotism and freedom for all.”
VFW Post 5136 Quartermaster Mark Wigstone said we take this day to give thanks to them and quietly contemplate their ultimate sacrifice…
“This great land was founded and shared a common belief in freedom, justice and liberty…It is our duty to remember their sacrifice and keep their memory alive.”
Lexington High School 2023 graduate Rachael Kearney, a favorite for many years, performed the “Star-Spangled Banner.”
Wigstone said, “It is up to us to make sure the legacy of our nation’s fallen is passed on from this generation to the next and to all generations beyond.” Wigstone said, “We must ensure that the youth of tomorrow have an awareness and understanding of whom it is they should likewise honor and exactly why they should honor them!”
American Legion Post 111 Commander Deb Brock reflected on the meaning of Memorial Day with the words, “Today we honor more than 1 million men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation while serving in wars and missions since the American Revolution.” Brock said, “As proud Americans, we should all remember that our freedom is not free…it is only possible because heroes, some from our own families or neighborhoods, have paid a high price. It is that price which enables us to have ceremonies and observances like this in towns across this great country.”
RRN/Rachael Kearney performing, “If You’re Reading This,” by Tim McGraw
Rachael Kearney also sang, “If You’re Reading This,” by Tim McGraw, which pays tribute to the families of soldiers who have died.
The program concluded with the honor guard firing a three-volley salute, followed by the playing of “Taps” and the reading of a final prayer.
