Major General R. Dale Lyles, 59th Adjutant General of Indiana, was the featured speaker at the Memorial Day ceremony at Crown Hill Cemetery this past Monday.

Major General Lyles noted that over 1.1 million service members have died defending democracy and the United States of America.

He explained American service members put their lives on the line to engage and support democracy, which protects the prosperity, freedom and equality that American citizens enjoy.

He added that many countries are threatened by the American way of life, which views all citizens as having equal justice under the law and possessing unalienable rights. Countries embracing dictatorships and totalitarianism would not tolerate their citizens expecting the same freedoms.

By honoring our military men and women on special occasions as Memorial Day, our country honors and reminds citizens of the efforts and sacrifices service members endure to protect our democracy. It also instills gratitude for the freedom and advantages of our type of governance.

Lyles noted that the Preamble to the Constitution refers to “"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union…” While our government is not “perfect,” this serves as a call for all citizens to continually strive to embrace and improve the democracy that is so vital and dear to all.

Lyles also noted that in Washington County, no one has done more than Gertrude Stephen, “a great American” who has constantly recognized and promoted the duty of local veterans.

Lyles is a Salem native. He has earned three educational degrees and has received dozens of decorations and badges for outstanding military service.

Many groups and individuals contributed to the ceremonies of the day.

Andrew Bush, Washington County Veterans Service Officer, greeted those in attendance and served as master of ceremonies.

Chaplain Delbert Ray began activities with a stirring heart-felt prayer.

The Salem High School Band provided music.

Boy Scout Troop 4029 presented and raised the flag prior to the Pledge of Allegiance.

American Legion Post 41 members served as color guard. Post 6636 members served as firing squad.

Ladies representing the American Legion, VFW and DAR placed wreaths in remembrance of deceased veterans.

John Quatroke read the names of approximately 50 county veterans who have died since Memorial Day 2023.

Two individuals played taps.

Following the Memorial Day ceremony, American Legion Post 41 hosted a meal for the public.