Grief unites veterans and families on Memorial Day

BISMARCK, ND (KFYR) – This year’s Memorial Day ceremony at the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery was free and open to the public. Those in attendance paid their respects to loved ones who once fought for the country’s freedom.

The event was filled with families of those who lost their lives fighting for their country. Loved ones came to pay their respects and leave flowers in honor of their lives and service.

The families included veterans and service members themselves, who remembered the losses of their colleagues with whom they served. These families and military members share a sense of sadness.

“It was difficult, but at the same time I’m glad we have an event like this to commemorate individuals like himself,” said Capt. Thomas Hansen of the North Dakota National Guard.

The veterans say this sadness does not reflect the pride that we served under these men and women. John Hanson was deployed to the border after September 11 and held many positions in the National Guard.

“I think it was an honor to serve with them and it’s just a great way to honor them by being here,” National Guard veteran John Hanson said.

For veterans and active military alike, Memorial Day epitomizes the appreciation they have for the privileges they all defended.

“Memorial Day is a great opportunity to take a moment to remember those veterans, but then also get out and enjoy those freedoms, to grill the burger, to have a cold drink on the deck , to get a boat on the water, do what you can to really live out what they fought so hard to protect,” said Hansen.

The North Dakota National Guard Military Honors Team performed a 21-gun salute to remember the fallen soldiers.

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