FORT MYERS, Fla. — A ceremony at Memorial Gardens honored our fallen service members this Memorial Day. People gathered to to pay tribute to local and national heroes, placing American flags on graves and reflecting on their sacrifices.
The ceremony featured a firing squad, given the command to "Aim...Fire!" followed by the sound of gunshots. Bagpipes played, adding to the poignant atmosphere. An orator reminded everyone, "Let us never forget every day that all gave some, some gave all, and freedom is not free."
One at a time, veterans came forward during the wreath recognition to place a wreath at the grave of a fallen veteran. Edward Hawkins, who served as an infantry soldier in Vietnam, emphasized remembering our nations heroes like this makes a big impact.
“If we can keep those thoughts alive in everyone's brains and everyone's minds, maybe we can find a world that’s at peace,” said Hawkins.
Standing next to Hawkins was John Camp, a Navy veteran from World War II. They both lost their namesake, James Doil Rader, in Vietnam when he was only 22.
Hawkins, Camp, and their families have a personal ceremony at Rader's grave site every year. A lone trumpet played as Camp spoke with emotion.
"It brought a tear to my eye, and it does 'til this day," Camp said.
Others, who may not have a fallen family member or friend at the cemetery, still come to pay their respects.
"We have the freedoms to enjoy our country because of their sacrifices - we should never forget that no matter what," said John Zadrovitz, a Fort Myers resident.
