Published on May 28, 2025 2:00 pm
Last Updated on May 28, 2025 2:01 pm
(THE WEATHER PROVIDED A BEAUTIFUL BACKDROP FOR MONDAY’S MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE AT THE VETERANS MEMORIAL IN EFFINGHAM)
A beautiful Monday morning greeted those who attended Memorial Day services for 2025. The Monday events concluded a busy weekend of commemorations.
Effingham Disabled American Veterans Chapter #7 served as the host veterans organization. Gary Buehnerkemper served as guest speaker and reminded those present that freedom isn’t free and shared that we all need to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, as well as those who love and miss them. DAV Commander Dave Althoff served as master of ceremonies. Others taking part were Gold Star Mothers Lynn Donaldson, Kathy Sayne and Gertrude Kenter; St. John’s Lutheran Church Pastor Mike Burdick who offered the invocation and delivered the benediction; Charlie and Bob McWhorter who oversaw the raising of the colors; Sergeant at Arms Bill Copple, who led the 21-gun salute; Matt Stead, who performed “Taps”; representatives of the various veterans organizations; and the Effingham Elks, who presented their large flag.
