Patriot Ledger - Braintree Remembers those who Fell and their Families

News Article

By Fred Hanson

In his 26 years in the Marine Corps, Col. Michael LeSavage has known many men and women who went to war and 53 who did not come back.

Some he knew well, others only briefly. A few he mentioned by name as he spoke at the town's Memorial Day observance at Blue Hill Cemetery Sunday.

"It's is very difficult for me to convey the loss I feel this day," LeSavage said. "But I know the loss their families feel is greater.

The commander of the 25th Marine Regiment of the 4th Marine Division at Fort Devens, LaSavage called upon everyone to remember those who gave their lives for this country, especially this weekend.

"Even if you took a moment to pause and pray, I believe the fallen absolutely know you care," LeSavage said.

In his preface to the traditional reading of Gen. Logan's Orders, retired Army Brigadier Gen. John Carlson said the observance of Memorial Day has its roots in painful years that followed the Civil War, a struggle which took 750,000 lives.

"It was thought it was time to do something" to remember those who died in service to their country, something not done for those who died in the preceding wars, Carlson said.

U.S. Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-Mass, said "when someone serves in the military, the whole family serves."

He said we should not only show loyalty to those who are in uniform, but to the families of those who have died in service to their country. He noted his mother-in-law lost a brother in World War II.

He said that by simple act of attending the Memorial Day observance, the audience helps "carry the burden of the Gold Star families who are here."

Mayor Joseph Sullivan noted that 1.3 million Americans have been killed in this nation's wars, and Memorial Day is a time to honor their sacrifice.

"We remain united in our gratitude to those who laid down their lives for our country, Sullivan said.

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