HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, May 30, 2022) – In cities, towns and villages across America, while many headed for the parks as the green flag for the summer vacation season fell on Monday’s Memorial Day, many others stood along roadways and in cemeteries to honor those whose sacrifice allowed for the green flag to fall.
In Holland, following a parade through downtown to Pilgrim Home Cemetery, Mayor Nathan Bocks said that this was a time to celebrate. “We celebrate our independence, we celebrate our freedom, we celebrate our liberty – all of those things that people have fought so hard to preserve and defende for generations,” he explained during the 46-minute program at the cemetery. “What a fitting day, what a glorious, glorious summer day to be back together again, to be able to celebrate,” as Bocks referenced two straight years of no organized Memorial Day activities in Holland due to COVID 19 health protocols.
“As you’re eating your hot dogs and enjoying your barbeques this afternoon, think about that service and think about what that service means. It means continuing that freedom, continuing to honor those who serve.”
The husband-and-wife team of Dr. Allen and Jennifer Gradnigo Jr. delivered the oration. Jennifer Gradnigo is a retired Army Reserve Major who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “Memorial Day honors the fallen, our comrades in arms who didn’t make it home to their families,” she said. “They left loved ones behind who never got one last hug or a chance to say goodbye. Many were lost before their lives even started. They gave everything to their country – they gave their lives. We honor them today to say thank you – thank you for being part of the best one percent.”
Dr. Gradnigo is a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel who served in Operation Enduring Freedom. “I dare say all the veterans here remember what it felt like to put on our uniforms,” he said. “We wore them daily, weekly or monthly. Those of you who serve today don’t know whether today will be your last … whether it will be your day to make the ultimate sacrifice, and you put on the uniform anyway.
“Those of you who serve today know that your military training has prepared you for what the day might bring. Those of you who serve today continue a long tradition of placing your trust in your leaders, your buddies, and those who report to you. Those who serve today face the day.”
There were also Memorial Day parades and/or commemorations in Zeeland, Hamilton, Saugatuck, Douglas, Grand Haven, Hudsonville, Jenison, Wayland and other communities statewide and across the country.
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