Memorial Day is often considered the “unofficial beginning of summer,” and that is no exception in Malad, and across the valley.  The other annual occurrence, though, is the observation of Memorial Day itself, which was undertaken in fine fashion  on a bright and sunny Monday morning.  

The American Legion spent the morning presenting three volley salutes at the area’s many cemeteries in honor of veterans, and stopped at the Malad City Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. for the primary public tribute.

The event was sponsored by the American Legion Ernest W. Jones Post #65, and conducted by Legion member David Colton, CMSGT USAF (ret).

After an invocation by John Allen and the Pledge of Allegiance, a stirring rendition of the National Anthem was performed by Emree Hanks, Ella Sperry, and London Hess.  

Colton explained a bit about the history of Memorial Day, which “was started in South Carolina in 1865” when freed slaves decorated the graves of Union soldiers who had died in captivity, which was the beginning of national cemeteries. In 1868, Maj. General John A. Logan, Commander in Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic on May 30, 1868 (chosen so that the flowers would be in bloom), established the holiday, which was soon adopted among the states.  By 1890, Union all states adopted the holiday.  After WWI, it was expanded to honor all soldiers who had died in the service, not just the Civil War.

The bell is tolled for each of the veterans who passed away from the time of last year's Memorial Day ceremony.

 Following the musical performance, featured speaker Col. Mark Howard, USAF (ret) spoke to the crowd about his thoughts on Memorial Day.  

Col Howard had a long and distinguished career in the Air Force, serving in the field as well as in hospital administration.  He has also served as a Mission president.

“It’s a real pleasure to be here today.  I love coming back to this valley I was raised in, and where I was taught the principles of hard work, and honesty.  It’s great to celebrate 250 years!” 

Howard talked about how the country that we enjoy today was predicated on the servicemen and women keeping it from falling under other hands.

“I think it’s amazing what we have accomplished, by those who have served in the military and especially those who gave their tomorrows so that we could be here today.”

Howard recounted some of his experiences in the field, including what he saw as miracles that saw him through his military career.  He focused, as well, on those who had not made it through and discussed some of the funerals he had been most touched by.  

“Freedom was never free,” Howard said.  “I am very proud to have worn the uniform of the US Air Force.”

A musical number was then performed on the violin by Danielle Pettis, after which the names of the veterans who had passed since the ringing of the bell last year were read out.  The solemn tolling of the bell brought about the appropriate mood for the Three Volley Salute from the Legion Post 65, and the playing of “Taps” by Bridger deJong.

The programs for the day were prepared and printed by the Oneida County Library.  Chairs were set up by Kelly Neal of Edith’s Collective, and sound was run by Lance Tripp, of Malad City Council.  

Following the presentation, the cemetery remained filled with family members decorating and visiting graves, and enjoying he marvelous Memorial Day sunshine.