Monday morning, May 30, 2023, I was in attendance for the Fort Dodge, Iowa Memorial Day gathering at the Veteran’s Memorial Park, just north of the city. The weather was near perfect for the citizens who cared enough to honor those soldiers who have fallen in service to our nation. The sky was blue, the humidity was low, and there was enough of a breeze to keep the flags billowing in a colorful display throughout the park.
Precisely at 10 am, The Karl King Municipal Band began playing a series of marches and patriotic renditions of America the Beautiful, My Country Tis Of Thee, You’re A Grand Old Flag, etc. The band performs each year during the summer months at various functions and at the Bandshell in Oleson Park
The Color Guard presented the colors, the band played our National Anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and the Invocation was delivered. There would be several speakers to follow providing the proper backstory as to why we set aside time to remember those who paid the ultimate price to keep our Nation free, and for the sacrifice their families have made with their loss. There were many reminders as we later walked the grounds.
At the end of the ceremony, a solemn reminder for all who attended of the finality of life for those who gave their all, a moving rendition of ‘Taps’…
As those who attended made their way home to continue their lives, there were no doubt countless souls who were proud to have served these appreciative citizens of the United States of America.
