A day to remember, and a day to appreciate

• Memorial Day observance

The community's Memorial Day observance concluded at the Veterans Memorial by the Mississippi River, and included the traditional rifle salute, the laying of the wreath in the river, and the playing of “Taps.”

Talk about it

On Monday, Hastings remembered those who have served this country and did not return home.

Memorial Day observances were held at the Minnesota Veterans Home Hastings, Roadside Park, Sailors and Soldiers Cemetery, and the Veterans Memorial on the Levee.

“We are here to honor and remember all Hastings war dead,” Hastings Mayor Paul Hicks said. “It is a reminder of Hastings residents’ past and present as defenders of freedom.”

Hastings resident and veteran Tom Nesbitt urged the large crowd “to take a few moments to say thanks” to those who have served.

“Freedom is a paradox,” he said. “It is never given freely and must be fiercely defended.

“We have been blessed with the good fortune to sustain and maintain a military force.”

That military force has met this country's needs, Nesbitt said.

Other portions of the program included Memorial Day readings by Michelle Mages, Voice of Democracy, and Anna Sacchetti, Patriot Pen.

Boys State representative Derek Thooft was introduced. Buglers Adam Ernst and Joel Farber were introduced and presented monetary gifts for their participation at Memorial Day activities for many years.

Good Star Mothers Mrs. Harry (Ruth) Swanson and Mrs. Daniel (Marilee) Carlson were honored.

In addition to singing the national anthem, Gordon Gathright sang, and encouraged others, to sing with him a medley of patriotic songs including “God Bless America.”

The Rev Paris Pasch offered prayers at all locations.

The program was sponsored by the Hastings Lyle Russell Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1210, the Nelson Lucking American Legion Post 47, and their auxiliaries.

Tags: communities, news, memorial, day