The Memorial Day ceremony in Yorktown, hosted by the DeWitt County Vietnam Veterans of America, honored veterans and their families for their sacrifices on May 26 at the VVA/DeWitt County Veteran’s Memorial Helicopter Site.
VVA President Hank Chinnery, the master of ceremonies, welcomed the more than 125 attendees.
The ceremony featured an invocation by Dan Williams, the presentation of colors by VVA/VFW Guard Commander Clark Kerlick, the Pledge of Allegiance recited by VVA member Tony Allen, and the National Anthem sung by Billy Fisher.
Before reciting the names of Yorktown’s war dead from the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the recent Afghanistan, Dan Williams introduced the poem "Mansions of the Lord," written by Randall Wallace for the film "We Were Soldiers."
“The poem highlights the eternal life and divine embrace awaiting fallen soldiers, emphasizing the ultimate sacrifice they made for their country,” he explained.
Following this, the Thirteen-Fold Flag Ceremony was performed on a draped casket. Each fold of the flag holds symbolic value, and the 13th fold—when the flag is completely folded with the stars uppermost—reminds us of our nation's motto: "In God We Trust."
Valerie Chinnery, Heather Menn, and Laura Wauson, from the VFW Auxiliary Post 8136, laid the memorial wreaths.
The program recognized the military services of the Army, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Marines, as well as the Gold Star and Blue Star spouses and parents for their support and sacrifice. The realization of the sacrifices made by those present was deeply poignant.
CWO 4 Justin Hagel served as the keynote speaker, delivering a powerful speech that emphasized the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. He highlighted the importance of remembering those who have fallen and upholding the principles of freedom and democracy, honoring those who "gave all" to protect the freedoms we enjoy as Americans.
Hagel referenced the ultimate sacrifice made by Mrs. Bixby, who lost five sons in the Civil War, in Abraham Lincoln's condolence letter to her and the Gettysburg Address. He also spoke about the graves on the sloping hills of Arlington National Cemetery and shared the story of POW Jeremiah Denton, who returned home after spending seven years in the Hanoi Hilton during the Vietnam War.
"When he saw our flag, he saluted it, said 'God bless America,' and then thanked us for bringing him home," Hagel recalled.
He underscored the gravity of the cause for which these men died, championing ideals such as inalienable rights, private property, the right to defend oneself, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Hagel led the audience to sing "Taps," a song traditionally played at military funerals, and reflected on its significance.
The ceremony concluded with a benediction by Dan Williams, thanking God for His grace and mercy and blessing the attendees. Following the benediction, the attendees were invited to stand for the colors, military gun salute, and the playing of "Taps" by Rebekah Lincke.
