Hundreds remember veterans at Memorial Day service at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly

By Karen Confer

From © The Flint Journal

HOLLY, Michigan -- Hundreds of veterans, family members and patriots gathered under the flags of the 50 states and five branches of the military Sunday to honor deceased veterans.

The sixth annual Memorial Day Ceremony was held at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly. After a cannon salute, U.S. Rep. Dale Kildee, D-Flint, offered remarks, followed by keynote speaker Brig. Gen. Michael Stone, director of the Joint Staff of the Michigan National Guard.

The event brought back memories of service in the Vietnam War, said Gary Esch, 62, of St. Clair Shores. He said he hoped the program would help to educate future generations.

"We honor the people that gave their life, or gave a part of their lives," he said. "It's so important too, that we teach that to our children — that freedom is not free."

The rows of white tombstones, all decorated with American flags, serves as a reminder of the thousands of troops who fought for the country, said Jeanne Thick, the president of the Great Lakes National Cemetery Advisory Council.

"Behind each one of those names there is a grieving relative or friend," she said. "Most importantly, we must remember behind each of those names is an American hero."