Memorial Day 2020 observance different, but meaningful

Memorial Day 2020 looked a little different this year, with a shortened program and masked attendees at the observance hosted by American Legion Post 413. But concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic did not dampen the sentiments of the event. Memorial Day cermonies are all about honor. 
 

In his brief speech, Post 413 Commander Bob Mattson said he asked the member of the post honor guard if they wanted to hold the ceremony on the courthouse lawn this year. He said every member of the honor guard said yes, the observance must be held to honor the military men and women who have died. 
 

The Honor Guard for the 2020 Memorial Day observance were James Zimmer, Sue Westerlind, and Rich Palmer. The members firing a salute were Rodney Carlson, James Ford, and Orvis Lunke. Terry Breithaupt served as bugler for the day.
 

The ceremony started with a powerful rendition of the National Anthem, by Grand Marais resident (and city councilor) Kelly Swearingen. 
 

Commander Mattson welcomed all in attendance and spoke of the dwindling numbers of World War I and World War II veterans, and even veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He noted that there are not as many veterans as in years past. He added that some service people had perished due to COVID-19. 
 

Mattson said no matter how a veteran served, they deserved the nation's respect and gratitude for their sacrifice, whether in combat, or years later from combat- related issues. He said every veteran deserved recognition on his or her passing. 
 

The tolling of the bell was conducted, with Commander Mattson reading the names of the veterans he had been informed of  who lived in Cook County, who had lived in Cook County or with ties to the North Shore. There were 13 names on the list this year: 
 

After the somber roll call, using the bell loaned to American Legion Post 413 by Iola Wojtysiak, Mattson thanked everyone for coming. He reminded everyone of an activity that would not lead to the spread of the COVID-19 virus--a quiet walk through a local cemetery. He encouraged family groups to do so, to stop and visit the graves with the small flags waving in the breeze.