NORTH KINGSVILLE — Soldiers from many eras of military service, World War II to Afghanistan, descended on Greenlawn Memory gardens Saturday morning to pay their respects to those less fortunate who paid the ultimate sacrifice by giving their life for their country.
Several hundred people gathered amidst the graves of the cemetery under overcast skies to celebrate Armed Forces Day.
The third annual “Echo Taps Worldwide” included speakers, poems and a stirring rendition of Taps played by more than 10 buglers placed in strategic spots around the cemetery.
Gary Morris, 9th District American Legion Adjutant, reminded the crowd that Armed Forces Day became a reality in 1949 and the first event was on May 20, 1950, after President Harry Truman signed off on the special day.
“Today we honor those people (who) have served,” Morris said.
Carlos Hudson recited the Bugler’s Prayer as people readied themselves for the Echo Taps program.
John Payne, First Vice Commander of American Legion Post 743, said the ceremony means a lot to him because it is a way to honor past, present and future members of the Armed Forces.
“Americans still need to be more patriotic,” Payne said.
“I think it (the ceremony) went off pretty well,” said John Pildner who fought during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. He also said he felt more people should attend the service.
“It’s to honor those who went and fought and died for this country and those who are serving now,” Pildner said.
The event was hosted by American Legion Neal Post #743 and Greenlawn Memory Gardens. It was sponsored by the Veterans Administration, National Cemetery Association and Bugles Across America, Inc.
Many people pulled cameras from their pockets to photograph a World War II P51 that conducted a fly over during the event.
The P 51 was provided by Titan Aircraft of Austinburg Township. It flew over several times from a variety of directions.
The first player in the Echo Taps portion of the program was Conneaut resident Joe College who served in the military from 1950 to 1970.
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