Legionnaires from Becker and Big Lake carried out a number of cemetery honors on Memorial Day, remembering fellow vets who have died since their service or didn’t make it home.

Becker

Beginning at the bridge over Co. Rd. 24, the Becker Legionnaires performed a special salute at 8:30 a.m. to fallen veterans who died over water. The second stop was at Snake River at 9 a.m., followed by an address at Reeds Cemetery in Santiago. At 10 a.m., the Legionnaires stopped at South Santiago and a half hour later at Danetown. The services finalized at the Becker Cemetery for an extended program . 

At each cemetery, names of the fallen were solemnly and respectfully read off. The U.S. flag was raised from half-staff to full and Taps was played to a large crowd gathered.

Dozens of citizens attended the services and visited loved ones at their gravesites. Flowers and flags dotted the landscape as well as a few special tokens left by family members such as photos, poems, trinkets and memorabilia.

The Legionnaires invited all who attended to join them for a free lunch at the Becker American Legion, where food, beverages and fellowship commenced.

Big Lake

The Big Lake Beyond the Yellow Ribbon  organization held a wreath-placing ceremony at the Veteran’s Memorial (corner of Hwys 10 and 25.) at 9 a.m. where two granite benches were dedicated to veterans and their families.

Attendees were invited to enjoy lunch at Third Rail in Big Lake where veterans were offered a free meal.

At 10 a.m., the American Legion held a Memorial Day Ceremony at the Big Lake cemetery. Pastor Marty Mably of Lord of Glory Lutheran Church gave an impassioned speech on the importance of the holiday and people’s roles in society. Members of the local scout programs laid tiny wreaths by each cross of the veteran whose name was read off during the ceremony.

Lunch followed the service at Lions Park.