KING, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – It’s a day many Americans might call a somber celebration.
Memorial Day ceremonies around the country paid tribute to those who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. armed forces.
“Memorial Day is a day unlike any other,” said Andrew Whitman, director of the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
Andrew Whitman set the stage Monday morning for the annual ceremony at the Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery across the street from the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King.
“We just like to remember and honor those that are buried here, and all across the country in our veteran cemeteries,” he said
“It’s really a big day, and it’s not just about the barbeques, it’s not about the time off. It’s really about remembering and honoring those who served, and who have passed since then. We take great pride in that. We take great pride in getting the cemetery ready,” said Whitman.
Whitman says the cemetery is home to about 8,500 veterans and their families. On Friday evening, volunteers placed flags on most of those markers. Tom Mangert is Chaplain with American Legion Post 161 at King.
“And in December, we put out 7,000 wreaths. And every veteran stone gets a wreath. We honor every veteran. And sometimes they get forgotten. And we don’t want to be doing that,” said Mangert.
After a 21-rifle salute, and the haunting melody of taps, the ceremony was complete. Whitman says a trip to the 60-acre cemetery is a must.
“It’s just beautiful. Especially on a day like today, when the wind’s blowing. Just seeing them flap around. Just the patriotism that that speaks to, for sure,” he said.
The Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery is 136 years old, with the first burial taking place in 1888.
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