Memorial Day ceremony at cemetery

ODESSA – A warm, sunny Memorial Day saw a semblance of pre-Covid activity at the Odessa Cemetery, as a small group of townspeople and visitors, members of the VFW and American Legion and other volunteers gathered to honor the fallen and those who served in the Armed Services. But there were some notable differences this year as well.

Mike Hardung replaced long-time moderator of the event, Legion member Bob Kissler, who passed away recently. The number of veterans volunteering to serve as members of the color guard and gun salute squad grows smaller each year. Those who stepped up deserve a shout-out of thanks. Serving in the color guard were Bob McKee, Sherrie Miller and Frank White. Miller's granddaughter Chloe Winkler carried the bugle that played a perfect recording of Taps.

Performing the gun salute were Ryan Scrupps, John Hardt, Gerald (Seth) Smith and Tony Quilici. Another member became dizzy and was rushed to the hospital earlier in the day.

Gathering in front of the cemetery chapel, Rev. Bill Cox of the Foursquare Church gives the invocation followed by Hardung leading the Flag Salute.

Then Hardung calls for volunteer veterans in the crowd to place a wreath at the World War II Tank Memorial. Several men and women step forward. The tank memorial honors Odessa-area residents who gave their lives in that war.

Dedication of the flags of Odessa veterans who died recently then follows. The six veterans and their branch of service are Wayne Frederick (Navy), Ivan Walter (Army), Allen Kuest (Army), Robert Kissler (Army), Roger Schafer (Army) and Delbert Cook (Navy).

Rev. Cox presents a brief message honoring those who served, followed by the Benediction.