The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Monday morning's Memorial Day Service at Greenwood Cemetery in Cathlamet began with a welcome from the local VFW post's commander, Danny Eaton. The flag was ceremonially brought to half mast, and Vietnam veteran, Bob Roche took a few minutes to reflect on why the day is recognized: to honor those who have fallen while fighting for our freedom.

Courtesy of Bill Tawater

Dan Eaton welcomed the crowd.

Roche said, "G.K. Chesterton once wrote: 'The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.' So as we depart this service today and as each of us continues the day, let us impart upon our family, friends and neighbors, a reminder of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coast guardsmen who made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that our future and our way of life endures."

Roche drew attention to one local hero, Frank Leon Miller, who graduated from Wahkiakum High School in 1940. He lost his life when the highly decorated Navy destroyer on which he served, the Cassin Young, was attacked by kamikazes on July 30, 1945, just two weeks before the Japanese surrendered. His body was returned to rest in Greenwood Cemetery in 1949.

The VFW Chaplain John Fluger said a closing prayer, and Wahkiakum High School senior and trumpet player Sidney Ashe honored all with the playing of Taps.