Memorial Day 2022

CUSTER COUNTY–The unofficial start of summer kicks off on Monday, May 30, 2022 with Memorial Day–a day to honor all of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Military.

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day and it originated in the years following the Civil War. It became an official federal holiday in 1971, according to History.com. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings, and participating in parades.

Commander of Custer County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3576 (VFW) Dell Moninger said Memorial Day brings about powerful memories of loved ones who should be remembered for their service, their devotion to duty, and their sacrifices.

“It brings with it a solemn state of mind and a yearning for those lost accompanied by a burning desire to honor them—the very few willing to die so all may live freely,” Moninger told KCNI/KBBN.

Moninger said regardless of individual differences, all Americans can come together on Memorial Day and unite in feelings of pride to have known selfless individuals and the hope that future generations will live free of tyranny and fear.

“We must remain forever mindful that without their courage and valor, America would be a very different place,” Moninger continued. “The freedom we enjoy was paid for at the expense of the lives of American men and women in our military and with the tears of those whose lives were changed forever by the loss of a loved one. We owe them a debt that can never be repaid.”

He encourages all of us to remember each and every day the men and women who gave their lives and who left behind a clear and lasting legacy of freedom, sacrifice, and virtue.

In Custer County, several services will be held on May 30 to honor local heroes who gave their lives fighting for our freedom.

Broken Bow: A Memorial Day service will be held at the Broken Bow Cemetery at 10 a.m. on Monday. In case of inclement weather, the service will be at the Vets building on 1st Avenue.

Merna: The American Legion Leo-Thomas-Webb Post #50 is hosting a Memorial Service at 10 a.m. at the Merna Cemetery. Essays read by Tenley Potter and Rylee Myers, Tribute to the Veterans by Karen Safranek, Reading the Honor Roll by Dave Downey and Brian Morse, Address given by be Kinsi Blakeman. In case of rain, meet at the Merna Community Building.

Oconto: Service at 10 a.m. on May 30 at the American Legion Hall in Oconto. Followed by Color Guard Services at five local cemeteries: St. Mary’s, Oconto, Lomax, First Lutheran Buffalo, and Christ Lutheran Buffalo (according to the Custer County Chief)

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