Local citizens mark Memorial Day

Local citizens paid tribute to those who have given their life in defense of the country during a Memorial Day ceremony Monday at the Mississippi County Courthouse in Blytheville.

With the threat of rain hanging over the region, most of the ceremony took place inside the third-floor courtroom. But the event still began outside with the raising of the flag, the national anthem, the release of three white doves and the placing of wreaths.

Once inside, the keynote speaker, retired Chief Master Sgt. Bob Rogers of Gosnell was introduced. Rogers, who served in the Air Force from 1957-1983, urged attendees to not only honor those who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but also those who served at home. He also called on those in the audience to look after aging veterans, including many who are languishing in hospitals and care centers.

Rogers also said people should be concerned with the "dash" that separates a person's year of birth and year of death. Noting that the "dash" is the time spent between birth and death, he urged attendees to live a quality life.

"Be mindful of how you spend your dash," he said.

Last, Rogers encouraged attendees to finish their lives strong. Endurance, he said, is the key. He said a hero is the man who does an ordinary task for as long he can.

The event closed with a gun salute from the Blytheville Police Department and the playing of taps.

Monday's ceremony was coordinated by Jim Dixon, Mississippi County veterans service office.

aweld@blythevillecourier.com