|
Hartsburg Union Cemetery Holds
Memorial Day Service
[May 28, 2026]
On Sunday afternoon, about 30
guests gathered at the veteran’s memorial in Hartsburg Union
Cemetery. Pastor Keith Ray of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Emden
offered words of remembrance and hope for our nation’s future. He
asked the crowd to bow their heads in prayer, then posed the
question, “What is worth dying for?” from Lord Byron. He added a
statement from Martin Luther King Jr.: “If you’ve got nothing worth
dying for, you’ve got nothing worth living for.”
Following Pastor Ray’s introductory
remarks, he explained that the statements were demonstrated by two
soldiers in World War II. They enlisted, trained, and fought
together, vowing to be friends no matter what. When one was
critically wounded, the other attempted to save him, defying his
commanding officer’s warnings against entering the crossfire. He
dragged his friend back to safety, taking a few shots himself. These
soldiers knew their love and friendship were worth dying for.
Transitioning from the story, Ray
then turned his focus to the founding documents, specifically the
Declaration of Independence and the idea that our nation was founded
upon God-given rights. He emphasized that our rights and freedoms
are naturally granted by God, but that government is necessary to
uphold them.
[to top of second column] |
In conclusion, Ray wrapped up his
sermon by tying everything together and answering Lord Byron’s
question. He stated that love is worth living and dying for.
Remembering those who sacrificed everything for the love of their
country is the purpose of Memorial Day. He wished America a happy
250th birthday and expressed hope that, as a country, we will move
forward with love. He closed with a prayer.
Following Ray’s closing prayer, the
American Legion then honored fallen service members with a rifle
salute. The salute was followed by the playing of “Taps”. After the
ceremony, several attendees lingered, quietly reflecting as they
observed the flags fluttering atop the graves of those who had
served.
Hartsburg Union Cemetery Memorial Day Service photo slideshow
2026 Hartsburg
Union Cemetery Memorial Day Service 3-Shot Volley and Taps video
[Joli Boerma Crane] |
