Memorial Day Observed at Fairmount Cemetery

Westerly View of the Veteran's Section of Fairmount Cemetery

“A man’s country is not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle and patriotism is loyalty to that principle.”  George William Curtis 

Memorial Day was quietly observed this past Monday by the Honor Guard from the St. George S. Creaghe Jr. Post #3261 at Fairmount Cemetery.  An observance was held at the Veteran’s section of the cemetery to honor and remember those Lamar area residents who passed away through war or military action, in the service of their country.  

Lamar VFW Honor Guard

With only a handful of residents on hand, the honor guard, led by VFW member Alfred Adame, performed the traditional 21 gun salute.    Later that day, the honor guard would perform identical services in Las Animas and at the Ft. Lyon National Cemetery.

Memorial Day has its origins in ceremonies honoring fallen Union soldiers from the Civil War.  The observances later expanded following WW1 to include all men and women who died during war or military action in the service of their country.  It was formerly observed on the 30th of May, regardless of the day of the week, but later was altered to its present form on the final Monday in May. 

By Russ Baldwin