Plummer Memorial Day Service

Memorial Day 2018 was one of the nicest Memorial Days in recent memory.  The sun shone beautifully and everyone was in shirt sleeves, wondering how to stay cool. The program handed out had a cover drawn by Treavor Van Dam, the 2018 Poppy Poster Winner.  Plummer Post Commander Roy Holmes began the program.   The color guard and rifle squad commanded by Chuck Simpson advanced the colors followed by the audience singing the National Anthem.  Chaplain Les Hofstad gave the Invocation followed by Commander Holmes and Auxiliary member Alice Jobe placing the wreaths, a tribute to our fallen comrades in all our wars.

Sydney Melby and Jayden Fore each spoke of their experiences at Girls’ State.  Both mentioned that they learned so much about state government, about the Auxiliary, about honoring our veterans, and Americanism.  What made Girls’ State even more memorable were all the new friends they made that they still keep in touch.  They were both a little scared at first, but that didn’t last long as they had many activities both educational and fun to keep them busy.  Jayden mentioned a very memorable experience for her was a service honoring all the Minnesota men and women who died in war.  All the their names were read and a candle was carried across the stage.  Both girls said Girls’ State was an amazing opportunity that they’ll never forget!  Do apply if you get the chance!

Commander Holmes gave a short Memorial Day message honoring our soldiers.  He mentioned the crosses near the platform. That started as an Eagle Scout Project 18 years ago with then Boy Scout Matt Schmitz.  They made a deal that whoever was left would carry on putting out the crosses.  Little did he dream the Father Matt Schmitz would be the first to leave as duty to God relieved him of setting out the crosses.   

Past Commander Clarence Gagner spoke about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Honor Guard marches 21 steps, equal to a 21 gun salute. The Guard is maintained 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and has been continuous since 1931.

Next Chaplain Les Hofstad and Auxiliary member Alice Jobe read the names of the fallen comrades. Following the Benediction the Rifle Squad fired the 3 round Rifle Volley in honor of the departed.   After retiring of the colors, the Honor Guard and audience regrouped by the river at the Creamery Bridge to pay tribute to those who died at sea. A lunch was served at the Legion Post following the program.