Legion official: 'Freedom isn't free'

Dan Rindt, American Legion District 8 department vice commander, told those attending the Memorial Day program at Graceland Cemetery in Clintonville on Monday that it is fitting our nation chooses the last Monday in May as Memorial Day. He said selecting the unofficial start of summer, a season filled with warmth and life, was a fitting tribute to men and women who died in service to their country. “Since 1866, when the people of Waterloo, New York, dipped their flags to half mast and decorated their village to remember the soldiers who died during the Civil War, our nation has paid tribute to those lives of all service men and women who have fallen in the line of duty,” he said. Rindt asked everyone to also honor those missing in action and the armed forces personnel now on duty. “I ask you to remember those who stand shoulder to shoulder against terror and oppression to carry freedom’s torch in foreign lands,” he said. “Remember the soldiers, support their families, and never forget the missing and rejoice in their lives.” Rindt said the American Legion is committed to advocating for veterans and supporting military families through its programs. “We remember those who are no longer with us because they sacrificed their lives in defense of our freedom,” he said. “This is why Memorial Day is so important. We don’t just honor those with the highest medals or even those who participated in the most hellacious fire fights. We honor the more than 1 million men and women who lost their lives defending America in wars from the Revolution to the global war on terrorism. Americans must remember that freedom isn’t free.” Mayor Judith Magee then read the names of the 37 area veterans who died in 2013. The Rev. Christian Burg of St. Martin Lutheran Church gave the invocation and the benediction. The Clintonville High School band participated. Jeannie Schley, president of the Clintonville Common Council, recited the Gettysburg Address. Alderwoman Mary Beth Kuester was the master of ceremonies. The program was repeated at the Riverside Cemetery in Embarrass.