Although a common theme coursed through Memorial Day programs held Monday — remembering those who fought and died for our freedoms, and the way of life we value — each presentation was unique in its Memorial Day message.
Kicking off the morning was the annual Hope Cemetery Memorial Day program, which drew a crowd to rural Wessington Springs. The program speaker, Jerauld County state’s attorney since 2013 and a South Dakota National Guard Veteran, Deach Koch, painted a vivid picture about Memorial Day, “a day set aside to remember and honor service men and women who died serving our country.”
A wreath laying ceremony done in part by American Legion Post 14 Sergeant at Arms Beth Magistro was followed with Taps played by Loree and Nathan Gaikowski at both Hope Cemetery and Prospect Hill.
The Prospect Hill program followed in Wessington Springs at 11 a.m., with Pastor Don Grubb taking the podium. On the heels of his powerful presentation, military rites were served atop Prospect Hill overlooking the south gulch.