September was a Month of Remembrance

As the month of September “leaves” us we are left with gentle reminders of the ever presence of the military in our lives and community. A busy one, the month of September was filled with a time of reflection and remembrance time.

The first week of the month was for suicide awareness and prevention. The high school students under the direction of Mrs. Sue Gilkerson created and displayed posters at the school.

Military deaths are still occurring at the rate of 22 a day! While many struggle with the idea of it, too many see this as the only option for them and their lives end tragically.

September was also the 20th anniversary of the tragic flights and deaths of over 3,000 lives lost on 9-11 which will be forever etched in the hearts and minds of so many. The local VFW and American Legion, the Auxiliaries and Sons of the Legion made a quiet and solemn walk to the Veteran’s Park on Front Street to honor those lost in the tragedy. Young children who will only know of the event from others placed small flags and luminaries to honor those lives lost.

And just as quietly, a simple and quiet remembrance was displayed on POW/MIA day, Friday, September 17, to remind us not all of our families are at peace. Many await with fading hopes of the return of their loved one.

Honored as a Gold Star Mother on Sept. 26th was Mae Walsh whose son, Truman, died in combat in Vietnam, and also honored was Mellissa Sandvick whose son, Jeremy, was also killed in combat.

As seasons come and go, we take time to reflect on the world around us. With a grateful heart we recall the events, and may we “never forget”.