Various local veterans recently looked back on their service–specifically remembering those who were lost in the line of duty.
A number of activities are in store for Memorial Day today, honoring the memory of fallen soldiers.
Navy Second Class Electrician Jim Walker recently shared his thoughts on the day. Walker tells WGIL that contrary to what some believe, today is not about the living veterans–it’s about those who didn’t make it.
“Memorial Day is not about the active members,” says Walker. “Memorial Day has always been a way to honor our deceased, and that’s what I try to do every year. I lost a shipmate and I think about him every year–especially this time of year. I’ve been in (American) Legion for 46 years, and I’ve done a lot of memorial services. So, a lot of people get it confused that this is honoring us guys that are still walking around. Really it’s not. It’s to honor the deceased.”
Walker served between 1964 and 1969. He is a 46 year American Legion member.
Navy Electrician and Vietnam War Veteran Gary Peekenschneider added his thoughts on today. Peekenschneider says he will honor the fallen by visiting five cemeteries in the area–a tradition he says he upholds every year.
