A sparse but patriotic  audience gathered at the Howard County Courthouse Sunday afternoon for the annual Memorial Day service, presented by the Howard County Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and American Legion Post 273.

Rev. Sharae Kelley of the Fayette First Christian Church delivered the invocation and benediction, asking for comfort for those who grieve and to help everyone live in ways worthy of the sacrifices made on our behalf.

Boy Scout Troop 62 raised the flag and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Harrisburg High School student Lydia Eaton performed the Star Spangled Banner.

Fayette Mayor Greg Stidham reminded those present that Memorial Day is a day set aside to honor and remember the brave men and women of our armed forces who gave their lives in service to our country. “Their sacrifice secured the freedoms we enjoy today.”

Keynote speaker Richard Smith, a U.S. Air Force veteran and current chaplain of American Legion Post 273, spoke about the true meaning of the day. He moved to the Fayette area six years ago, having previously served in the U.S. Air Force from 1974 to 1979.

“Memorial Day is a tradition that we should all know why we celebrate it,” Smith said. “It’s a day we set aside to remember the service personnel who died in combat from their wounds. This day is for those who did not come home.”

Smith shared that his military service and an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., changed how he views the holiday.

“Memorial Day has caused me to think a lot more about why we celebrate it,” he said. “It caused me to think about those who served our great country and died in battle. No one in my family died in combat, but all those who did die in combat, I consider family.”

Kirk Klinger, a veteran and member of the Howard County American Legion, recognized all veterans in attendance by branch of service. The Howard County DAR then placed the memorial wreath. A haunting rendition of “Taps” was performed by Kevin and Haydan Fearn.