Waukesha Pays Tribute to Military Members Killed in Action
Memorial Day ceremony included a special "thank you" for those who have served in the Armed Forces.
Waukesha residents paid tribute to the veterans who were killed while serving the United States on Monday for Memorial Day.
A special moment during the ceremony came when Mayor Jeff Scrima asked the veterans in the crowd to raise their hand. Then, taking a pause from the ceremony, Scrima had the audience reach out to each veteran to say “Thank you” for their service.
“Each moment of life is a miracle and a mystery,” Scrima said. “There is no doubt the freedoms that we enjoy now, the quality of life that we enjoy here in Waukesha and the opportunity to pursue all of our dreams is because of the sacrifice of those who have gone before us.”
Deputy Police Chief Mark Stigler was the main speaker at the Memorial Day observance ceremony and spoke about his time participating in military funerals when he was stationed with the Army near Arlington Cemetery.
“We can never forget that these military men and women left their homes to answer their country’s call to arm,” Stigler said.
The men and women left everything they know, their family, their friends, their spouses and their children to protect their country, Stigler said.
“The most incredible part is that they left knowing that they may never return home again,” Stigler said. “They knew they may be asked to give the ultimate expression of patriotism to give their lives, and still they went. They understand that freedom is not free and that it comes with a price.“
Ron Kading
7:15 am on Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Thank you Mayor Scrima. I'm a Vietnam era vet and out of the military for over 45 years. Yesterday was the first time in all those years that anyone actually took the time to thank me for my time in service. It indeed was a touching moment for all of us that raised their hands. Many people, young and old, came up to me and just said, "Thank you" What a honor! Thank you Mayor Scrima for departing from the usual Memorial Day speeches and as you said,"Let's do something different."
Scott L
5:05 am on Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Although I didn't participate in the memorial service at Cutler Park, my wife and I did watch the parade and it was very nice. It was especially nice to see our Mayor walking down the street shaking hands with individuals and wishing everyone a Happy Memorial Day.
@Ron Kading: Yes Ron, our Mayor does employ service as our Mayor in a nontraditional way ;-) As you stated, however, it was a way of honoring you as a veteran, rather than the typical speech... I agree that thanks are in order for Mayor Scrima, but more thanks are in order for you Ron, and the many other veterans who "earned" the respect and honor you deserve!