REMEMBERING: Strong Memorial Day turnout in Red Oak

Area residents turned out strong Monday to remember the fallen during Memorial Day services. 

Master of Ceremonies Clint Rubey led the proceedings, with music provided by members of the Red Oak High School Band, who played patriotic pieces before and during the ceremony. 

Following the Posting of Colors, dedication of flags by Court of Honor representative Mary Fensterman, and the placing of the wreaths, the Memorial Day Address was given by Command Sergeant Major Rachel L. Fails with the Iowa Army National Guard. Fails said for many, they would enjoy the day off, and give little thought to the true meaning of the day. Fails however, said the day truly was special. 

“Veteran’s Day pays tribute to all veterans who have served our great nation, and Armed Forces Day honors those currently serving. What distinguishes Memorial Day from every other holiday is that it honors those who gave their lives while serving our nation in our armed forces,”  commented Fails.

The U.S. will soon mark two major historical wartime events. The first is the 100th anniversary of the United States entry into World War I in April of 1917, which 114,000 Iowans fought in, and 3,600 died. The second is the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, in which over 115,000 Iowans served, and 869 gave their lives.

“It really is our obligation to make sure we hold sacred the remembrance of our fallen heroes, remember out history, and ensure we make that remembrance of our heroes the duty of all Americans, and remember the more than 1.3 million Americans, and nearly 38,000 Iowans who have lost their lives in conflicts over our nation’s 240-year history,” Fails said.