Memorial Day Ceremonies Held Throughout Kankakee Valley

Senator Jim Arnold addresses the crowd at Crown Hill Cemetery

A grateful nation paid tribute to its fallen heroes yesterday during Memorial Day services around the country. Here in the Kankakee Valley, residents attended services under hot and humid conditions.

At Knox, Senator Jim Arnold of La Porte gave the Memorial Day address at Crown Hill Cemetery.

VFW Commander Bob Sims

“We as a nation must never allow the brave acts of courage of our brave soldiers to be taken for granted. But freedom comes at a price; human sacrifice is that price. It’s a necessary part of achieving and maintaining freedom,” Arnold said in his address.

Wreaths were laid at the Starke County Courthouse monuments, including the newest monument to honor the war’s fallen in Afghanistan.

The Master of Ceremony for both the courthouse and cemetery services was Darrel Gunn. Music was provided by the Knox High School Band, and soloist Mae Crider.