BY CLIFF SMELLEY
Retired Army Maj. John Crews, a member of Starke’s Jones-Langford-White American Legion Post 56, encouraged people to remember those who lost their lives in defense of this country — not just on Memorial Day or in the present, but also moving forward into the future.
Crews was the featured speaker at the American Legion post’s annual Memorial Day observance at Charles J. Schaefer Veterans Memorial Park. He began by asking those in attendance to “take a moment to pause and reflect on the significance of Memorial Day, a day of remembrance and honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our nation.”
By the time he closed, Crews said the remembrance of those individuals should continue throughout our lives.
“In today’s world, we face numerous challenges, both seen and unseen,” Crews said. “It is crucial to remain vigilant, informed and prepared in the face of these uncertainties. Yet in doing so, we must also remember to uphold the principles of compassion, understanding and resilience.
“The sacrifices of our military personnel remind us every day that freedom is not free, and it demands our unwavering commitment to protect and cherish it.
“As we observe Memorial Day, let us carry forward the lessons of courage and sacrifice and unity taught by our fallen heroes. Let us commit to a future where their sacrifices are never forgotten and where we strive to build a world worthy of their legacy.”
Crews shared the history of Memorial Day, which began following the Civil War, with communities across the U.S. honoring those from both sides who fell in battle.
“Originally known as Decoration Day, this day was a time for families and communities to visit the graves of the fallen personnel and place flowers in respect and gratitude,” Crews said. “It was not until World War I when the holiday expanded to honor all American military personnel who had perished in any way.”
The day was observed on May 30 until Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968, establishing Memorial Day on the last Monday of May. The act went into effect in 1971.
“As we reflect on this history, let us recognize the profound sacrifices made by our service men and women,” Crews said. “They have chosen to stand in harm’s way so we may enjoy the freedoms and liberties we hold so dear. Their courage, dedication and selflessness are the testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring values upon which our country was built.”
Bradford High School JROTC cadets participated in the ceremony, placing wreaths in honor of those making the ultimate sacrifice. Wreaths were provided by Jones-Langford-White American Legion Post 56, VFW posts 182 and 1016, Altrusa Club of Starke, Boy Scouts Troop 70, Daughters of the American Revolution, Downtown Merchants, City of Starke, City of Starke clerk’s office, Woman’s Club of Starke, Bradford County and Bradford County commissioners.
As at every gathering of an American Legion post, an empty chair was designated in remembrance of prisoners of war and those missing in action.
