McKenzie Hosts Memorial Day Ceremony

McKENZIE (May 25) — The City of McKenzie honored fallen servicemembers with a Memorial Day Ceremony Monday in Downtown Veterans Memorial Park.

During the ceremony, a McKenzie fire engine ladder held high a giant, 40x20-foot American Flag as a backdrop. The flag was donated to the city by Woodmen Life.

Mayor Ryan Griffin served as emcee, beginning the event by leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Chelsea Brown performed "Goodness of God" and "How Great Thou Art."

David Kellett Hochreiter, Sgt. Medic, U.S. Army, recited the poem "Forever Remembered" and offered a Memorial Day prayer.

Tammy Host, DT3, U.S. Navy, Retired, was the speaker. She relayed the history of Memorial Day, tracing back to the Civil War-era Decoration Day, and recited the poem "In Flanders Fields." She also implored everyone to remember and honor the true meaning of the holiday.

Dana Deem, Master Sgt., USAF, Retired, representing American Legion Post 37, and Tim Smothers, E7 Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Retired, VFW Post 4939 Commander, placed the Memorial Wreath on the Veterans Memorial Walk.

Attendees were invited to place a rose on the stone of loved ones honored on the Walk.

Police Chief Ryan White fired the ceremonial miniature cannon, and Riley Crafton played Taps.

Refreshments were served by the VFW Post 4939 Auxiliary.

City Recorder Jennifer Waldrup organized the event, Parks employees prepared the park, and Steve Bomar provided sound.