Caledonia remembers the cost of freedom on Memorial Day

   The Cal-Mum community observed Memorial Day with solemnity and gratitude for those who have given their lives as payment for America’s freedom.

   The Matthew Cleary Post 255 sponsored the Memorial Day services and parade that drew so many to line the streets, giving a round of applause as the military men and women passed by.

   At the legion home, Post Commander Mel Keenan officiated over a reflective ceremony concluded by the Color Guard salute of the dead and the stirring sound of Taps. Caledonia Mayor Joe Caluorie, a Vietnam veteran, delivered a message to remind everyone that Memorial Day is not about the living, it is about remembering those who died to preserve freedom here at home.

   The Matthew Cleary Post sponsored essay contest winners were announced. Third place - Jordan Vokes, Second place - Emily Deragon and First place winner Ashley White delivered her essay to the crowd gathered at the legion.

   Matthew Cleary Post Sons of the American Legion sponsored poster contest winners for Cal-Mum fourth and fifth graders was announced. Fourth graders Emily Hallett and Kyle Pullyblank and fifth graders Emily Mattice and Emilya Naujokas each received a savings bond.

   Commander Keenan announced other awards. For 50 years of legion membership: Dr. William Andalora, Dr. Frederick Hinsdale and Frank Antinore. Jerrie B. Davis of Caledonia was named the Matthew Cleary Post Legionnaire of the Year.

   "This high honor reflects Davis’ impressive credentials and accomplishments within the Matthew Cleary Post, throughout the county and in his community," Keenan said.

"What Memorial Day Means To Me"
by Ashley White

   I never gave much thought to the meaning of Memorial Day until I was given this assignment. It was then that I decided to do a little research in order to learn more about this very important day. I quickly discovered that there was much more to this holiday than I ever had imagined, and I was glad I had taken the time to gain a better understanding.

   Memorial Day is not a day for joy. Instead, it is a solemn day where we remember those who have served, or are at this very moment serving our country. From the wars of times long ago to the war on terrorism we are fighting today, there have always been courageous men and women willing to leave the safety and comfort of their homes to fight for a cause they believed was worth saving. For as long as America has been the land of the free and the brave, there have been brave men and women who have fought each and every day to ensure our freedom.

   Regardless of the merits of a particular war, these people sacrificed the safety and security this country offers, to serve, protect, and defend us all. As a result, some paid the ultimate sacrifice and never returned home. Some paid a physical sacrifice and came home unable to walk, to use their hands, to see, or even to speak. Others came home with stories that we listen to with awe and disbelief. And there are those, who came home so wounded in mind and spirit, they found it difficult to remember the good, or to find happiness in the land they so desperately fought for.

   Memorial Day is a day to remember ... the thousands of flags that fly proudly on the graves of the soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery and cemeteries all over our country; the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; the hundreds of flags that fly proudly on the graves of soldiers from our own communities, and the monuments found in the center of our towns that proudly display the names of our local soldiers. It's a day to remember the heroes who walk amongst us, never looking for or expecting any thanks or recognition; the heroes who never came home to be thanked for their deeds and contributions; and the heroes who endured tenor and fear so we would feel none. Memorial Day is also a day to remember the thousands of veterans who lie sick and injured in hospitals; and a day to feel compassion for the families who have suffered loss. It is a day for those who have, and continue to exhibit, a level of courage and heroism that most of us will never know, and a day for those who sacrificed for others without regard for themselves.

   I now have a much better understanding of the importance of this special holiday we celebrate each May. Memorial Day is a day to remember. Too often we go about our daily lives never giving any thought to why we are able to enjoy all the liberties that we do. Too often we forget why we are able to fly our flag so proudly. We must remember that the freedom we enjoy each and every day came at a cost. We must remember those who have fought and continue to fight to ensure that this freedom is ours to enjoy, and we must always remember the sacrifice that is continually given by so many. Memorial Day serves as a remembrance and a reminder that, "all gave some ... and some gave all." I am proud and thankful to live in a country where freedom is worth fighting for, and I will always remember why that freedom exists.