Veteran’s Day Service held at Merlin Community Park
Boy Scout Troop 77 retiring worn flags at Veteran’s Day Service in Merlin.
As the Young Marine members of Josephine County raised our nation’s symbol high into the air, a feeling of peace settled over the crowd as our star-spangled banner flapped true and proud in the breeze. Just a glance of the red, white, and blue brings many thoughts of freedom and we must pay tribute for all the men and women who served and continue to serve our country, for without them the American dream would not be possible.
This year’s Veteran’s Day service was held at the Merlin Community Park at the Veteran’s Walk of Honor. The master of ceremonies, Don Monette, introduced the recent addition of veteran’s names to the Walk of Honor. A prayer and a talk about patriotism was given by Pastor Thomas W. Hirsh of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
All gathered were brought together as one as Mel Kerber led rousing renditions of our national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner,” “God Bless American,” and “America the Beautiful,” followed by a speech of patriotism by Carl Wilson.
The day’s agenda concluded as boy scouts from Troop 77 retired worn flags previously used at Merlin Community Park. Ceremonies for burning flags that are worn or faded are common practice for proper disposal, and this ceremony was conducted by scout master Grindy.
Many community members came to the monument to pay their respects to our soldiers and thank them for our freedoms, which is exactly what this monument was designed to do. The Veteran’s Walk of Honor was designed in 2003 by George Mullen of the Community Park Board and serves its purpose as a reminder of all the brave men and women who gave so much for our liberties. The monument was dedicated in 2005 and Veteran’s Day services will be held each year at the park. The columns are decorated with many names of honorable veterans who have a connection with Josephine County.
As another year rolls by, let us remember and embrace our freedoms which Americans have enjoyed for over two centuries. If you would like more information or would like to make a contribution, please visit merlincommunitypark.org.
