Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
SHOWING RESPECT during the playing of "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Monday's Memorial Day service at Marenisco Township Cemetery are, from left, Bruce Mahler, chaplain of American Legion Post 523; John Zorich, post commander; and Kelly Dunbar, the main speaker and a township trustee. In front of the gazebo is a Battlefield Cross, which consists of an upside down rifle, soldier's helmet and boots, as a means of showing respect to all fallen soldiers.
By P.J. GLISSON
Marenisco TOWNSHIP - A Memorial Day ceremony proceeded unhampered at Marenisco Township Cemetery despite the threat of storm clouds.
American Legion Post 523 hosted the service led by Commander John Zorich, who thanked everyone who participated and attended.
Kelly Dunbar, a member of the Marenisco Township Board of Trustees, provided the main address.
Although most Memorial Day speakers are veterans, Dunbar provided a unique twist in giving voice to the more than 99% of Americans who have not joined U.S. Armed Forces but who benefit from those who do.
Dunbar said he gained his bachelor's degree in business while playing football at a Wisconsin college. He then pursued a career in the Michigan Department of Corrections, where he is still employed, and he became a township trustee six years ago.
"I am grateful," said Dunbar of the choices he was free to make.
He explained that people join the service - whether short- or long-term - out of "patriotism, legacy or tradition," or for benefits including training or career growth, or for direction or camaraderie.
Moreover, he noted that many veterans will explain that - even when they leave the Armed Forces - their service just takes on new roles, whether by marching in parades, working in charities, or providing "invisible" support via the duty and honor of "brotherhood and sisterhood."
What matters, said Dunbar, is that the values veterans learn while serving their country endure in ongoing expression throughout their lives.
Dunbar also reminded that "veterans die in different ways," including after they return home, whether from psychological duress, other illness, accidents, etc.
He asked the audience to remember why we have our rights. "Make sure your children understand why they are able to have an iPhone, why they are able to go on Facebook, why they can dress the way they like," he said.
Under the direction of music teacher Isaac Boehnlein, the Junior and Senior High School Band of Wakefield-Marenisco K-12 School provided music for the event, including "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "Armed Forces Medley."
Eighth-grader Owen Miljevich closed the ceremony by playing "Taps" after the Honor Guard provided a 3-volley salute in honor of those fallen.
Township Supervisor Bruce Mahler, who provided the Roll Call of the deceased, also gave the benediction, and a luncheon followed at the township hall, sponsored by the Marenisco Fundraising Committee.
