Waverly honors fallen veterans with Memorial Day service

Under sunny skies and warm temperatures, residents of Waverly gathered on Memorial Day to pay tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to the nation. American flags fluttered in the breeze as families, veterans, and community members lined the streets and gathered at Veterans Memorial Park in a heartfelt display of patriotism and remembrance. Prayers, speeches, and solemn tributes reflected the true meaning of the holiday, as the community united in honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  

The day’s observance began with a parade led by Chief Deputy Matt Treichler of the Wright County Sheriff’s Office. Community members gathered along the parade route, many dressed in red, white, and blue, while local veterans assembled at the Waverly Fire Station parking lot in preparation for the procession. The parade traveled down Elm Avenue with spectators waving flags and applauding as veterans, service members, and participants made their way through town before returning to the station. The parade served as both a celebration of patriotism and a visible reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of Americans.

Following the parade, attendees made their way to Veterans Memorial Park for the official Memorial Day service. Post Commander Dwayne Diers welcomed those in attendance and thanked the community for continuing the tradition of remembrance year after year.

Retired Naval Commander Mike Monahan introduced featured guest speaker Retired Marine Captain Chas Henry. “I happen to know him quite well,” stated Commander Monahan. “Back in my Navy days, I worked at the Naval hospital in Yokosuka, Japan. In October of 1979, there was a huge fire that caused a lot of casualties among young Marines. They ended up under our care for about two days until we could get them on medevac planes. The bravery of these men is burned into my heart.”

Captain Henry, a combat veteran of the 1991 Gulf War, delivered remarks centered on the significance of honoring those who have served, along with a moving keynote address highlighting the bravery of those who experienced the tragic fire at Camp Fuji on October 19, 1979, which caused injuries to 73 United States Marines, of those, 13 would die of severe burns. 

The Veterans Roll Call, read by David Remer and Rick Lammers, followed the keynote address. As the names of local service members who died while serving the United States of America were spoken aloud, poppies were carefully placed at crosses during the Decoration of Crosses ceremony, serving as a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices behind each name remembered.

The Auxiliary Roll Call was read by Norma Ogle and Donna Gallagher, recognizing the ongoing dedication and support provided by auxiliary members throughout the years. The American Legion Rifle Squad then performed a ceremonial salute, followed by the playing of “Taps,” performed by Tom Dirks.

Following the conclusion of the Memorial Day service, attendees were invited to remain for refreshments and fellowship. The warm weather and large turnout created a meaningful atmosphere of gratitude and remembrance throughout the day in Waverly.