On Monday, May 25, local residents across several small towns gathered to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. American Legion posts in St. Clair, Madison Lake, and Eagle Lake carried on long-standing traditions, bringing communities together in solemn remembrance.
St. Clair Legion Post 475
The day’s observances began in St. Clair at 8 a.m. with coffee and donuts, as Legion Post 475 prepared to honor the fallen with an eight-site tradition. Jadynn Meerbeek reprised her role, playing ‘Taps’ following the color guard’s memorial service and gun salute. The first site of the morning was located right outside the legion post. Commander Dave Ivers read the memorial prayer while Cal Jonson delivered ceremonial flowers to honor the fallen. Sergeant-at-Arms Mick Rasmussen led the color guard through its cadence, navigating a route that included several cemeteries: McPherson-Union, St. Johns, St. Catholic, Medo-McPherson, and others.
Madison Lake Post 269
At 10 a.m., the remembrance continued at Calvary Cemetery with Madison Lake Post 269. Commander Tim Austad led the color guard, which featured its own live bugler for the ceremony. A large crowd of local families arrived to pay their respects, placing an honorary wreath at the site as a symbol of remembrance. During the service, Austad recited a memorial prayer, honoring the sacred service of the fallen.
Eagle Lake Post 617
The final services of the morning took place at 11 a.m. at Eagle Lake Cemetery, where Post Commander Joe Fisher of Post 617 led the color guard. Members of the Ladies Auxiliary carried the colors with pride and honor.
One of the post members, David, played ‘Taps’ using a ceremonial bugle. The service drew another significant turnout, with community members leaving U.S. flags, stars, and flowers at various grave sites to honor the deceased. Fisher offered a lengthy memorial prayer accompanied by flowers laid at the memorial site, followed by a final salute.
A Lasting Legacy
A day of remembrance spread across several small towns honoring the fallen. The legions of St. Clair, Madison Lake, and Eagle Lake carried on a tradition worthy of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. May their memory serve as a constant reminder that freedom is not free.
