What began as a holiday originally dedicated to honor Civil War soldiers has developed throughout the years into a day of remembrance for all who served in differing armed forces in various wars.
The annual Memorial Day service, sponsored by Veterans Organizations of Hot Springs, was held Monday morning at The Warehouse to honor men and women from Hot Springs who have served during the nation's wars. The location was moved from the nearby Veterans Memorial of Garland County due to the threat of rain.
The guest speaker, Maj. Gen. Mark H. Berry, adjutant general of the Arkansas National Guard, said it is not only important to recognize veterans' service, but to respect their devotion to duty.
"America continues to realize the never-ending sense of duty that our armed forces have as they serve our nation throughout the world," he said. "In each instance, without regard to the popular opinion of the moment, soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines have picked up their arms to begin the awesome task of fighting for our freedom."
Berry added that the holiday is a time to pause and reflect on what has been given and sacrificed for freedom.
"Over time, fewer and fewer have shouldered more and more of the burden, and it's only getting worse," he said, "and we still face challenges in an unsettled world."
In World War II, 11.2 percent of all Americans served in the armed forces. Berry said in the Vietnam War, that number dropped to 4.3 percent and, since 2001, 0.45 percent have served in the Global War on Terror. Berry said in an age when prejudices collide with freedom, he is concerned with the numbers of young men and women who come together to make the nation's freedom possible.
"Let us honor together the men and women who have given strength and courage to sacrifice for the common good," he said. "Let us never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, and those who cannot be with us today."
Berry, director of the State Military Department, served more than 41 years in the Air Force with 21 years of active duty. He currently commands nearly 10,000 soldiers and airmen in the Arkansas National Guard. Berry said celebrating Memorial Day was important for recognition of the service of all those who work for him.
Johnny Janise served in the Navy in the South Pacific for five years and said his brother was the first serviceman killed from Hot Springs 1942. For Janise, seeing the community gather in remembrance of those who served is something special.
"It makes me feel like we are appreciated," he said.
Local on 05/26/2015