Drums marked the beginning of the Washington Memorial Day services at which Governor Kim Reynolds spoke Monday morning. Veterans carried in the flags as the audience in the gym stood. Three World War II veterans were applauded. Reynolds thanked those who served, and those who lost their lives doing so, “Collectively we talk about the numbers. Over 200 Washington County men and women paid the ultimate price defending our way of life. Nationally the statistic is staggering, over 1.5 million Americans died in service to their country since the Revolutionary War, ordinary people responding in extraordinary ways.”

She said that Memorial Day services are an opportunity for the community to pay respect to those who served in the Armed Forces, “At services like this one we pause to offer our sovereign respect and to recognize their courage and valor. Because every day that we’re able to live, work, and raise a family freely in this great state and country is a precious gift given to us by the men and women who defend it, a powerful reminder this way of life we cherish is built upon the notion of sacrifice.” The Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America were sung and filled the gym. The ceremony ended with the playing of Taps.

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