Memorial Day is about honoring those who gave their lives protecting the United States. Across the nation, services were held to remember those who served, including in Central Louisiana.
The Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs held its Memorial Day ceremony at the Central Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. The event was held in person this year after being virtual last year because of COVID-19 restrictions.
Brigadier General (BG) David S. Doyle is the commanding general at Fort Polk and said, “The loss of the ones that you love is never something that you overcome but you bear that burden a lot more easily when you look around at the folks giving you additional support.”
The LDVA acknowledged the services and memorial wreaths were placed at the cemetery. An American flag was also placed in front of each tombstone remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
“It really is humbling to see so many people who recognize the contributions our military has made to our nation,” said BG Doyle. “The other amazing thing is the diversity of the group that was here. You saw different people from different backgrounds who all hold the United States to be important to them.”
BG Doyle said Memorial Day is not just about remembering America’s fallen heroes but also those families who have endured that sacrifice as well.
“Those are the ones that we have to take special care of and render special honor to because they are the ones that have the lifetime of suffering,” said BG Doyle.
At the ceremony, the national anthem was sung by Emily Hillman. The event concluded with the playing of “Taps” and the retiring of the colors.
https://www.kalb.com/2021/05/31/memorial-day-ceremony-at-central-louisiana-veterans-cemetery/