The Holley-Riddle Post 21 honor guard planned the perfect event for a Memorial Day ceremony that allowed a COVID-safe environment. It was a “Drive Through Honor and Remember Station.” The station was elegantly set up to create a feeling of solemnity fitting for honoring veterans no longer with us. Mother Nature’s chilling rain would not deter the honor guard and Post 21 members from patiently waiting for attendees to drive up to make requests to honor their loved ones.

The event began sharply at 1000 hours with the bugler sounding taps, followed by the calling of the names of Matthew Holley and Jimmy Riddle (Post 21 namesakes), two local heroes lost while on duty in Afghanistan. After each name was called, the bell of honor was rung allowing loved ones an additional moment to peacefully remember.

This process was repeated in the same way for every request made. As cars drove up to the area, they were greeted and given a handmade poppy pin attached to the poem “We Shall Keep the Faith,” by Monia Michael. Attendees came from different cities in the area and as far as 20 miles away. They were young and old, widows, sons, daughters, grandchildren and friends. The Wagner family brought their mother Betty Hagen, 91, so she could honor her father, Chris Henry Jensen (a WWI veteran and Purple Heart recipient) and her husband, Archie Hagen (a Korean War veteran). They chose our event out of many other options because we were able to give her a COVID-safe environment.

Honor guard captain Mary Garcia said, “Loss affects everyone differently, so our goal for this event was to give each attendee a safe place to personally reflect on their loved one or friend.” Despite the weather being a factor, 44 veterans were honored. Mission accomplished!