Excelsior Springs, MO — Under beautiful sunny skies, dozens of people gathered at the Clay-Ray Veterans Association to celebrate Memorial Day on May 27, 2024. The ceremony, which began at 10 a.m., was marked by heartfelt tributes and reflections.
Bob Nance called the ceremony to order, setting the tone for a day dedicated to honoring those who have served in the military. The Honor Guard was brought to attention, and the local Scout Troop led the Pledge of Allegiance, fostering a sense of community and patriotism.
Kelly Wilkins captivated the audience with her rendition of the national anthem, which was followed by an opening prayer from Joseph Ruckman. The crowd stood in silence as the Ruckman’s words echoed across the lawn, providing a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Randall Parman, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and Excelsior Springs native, delivered a poignant keynote speech during the ceremony. Parman highlighted the sacrifices made by service members throughout history, drawing on personal and historical anecdotes to emphasize the day’s significance.
Hear a full audio recording of Parman’s Memorial Day speech with introduction by Bob Nance at the link above.
Parman opened by commending the Legion Post for their dedication to honoring fallen soldiers. He reflected on the ultimate sacrifices made by military personnel to protect the nation’s freedoms, families, and values. Using powerful examples, Parman recounted the story of his father-in-law, who enlisted in the Navy on his 17th birthday in 1942, and the heroism of Marines Corporal Jonathan Yale and Lance Corporal Jordan Herder, who died preventing a devastating attack in Iraq in 2008.
The speech focused on duty and sacrifice, with Parman asking what motivates individuals to give their lives for their country. He stressed the importance of informed patriotism, urging the audience to educate themselves and future generations about the values and responsibilities that come with freedom.
Parman concluded by invoking a scene from the film “Saving Private Ryan,” challenging the audience to live lives worthy of the sacrifices made by those they honor. He closed with a prayer for blessings upon the fallen and the nation they served.
The ceremony continued with the laying of individual wreaths for each branch of the military service. Anna Unterreiner placed the wreath for the Auxiliary, followed by Michael Sutko for the Army, Joyce Scroggins for the Navy, Martin Conrad for the Marines, Joe Arthur for the Air Force, Darryl Couts for the Coast Guard, and Gary Stewart for the Merchant Marines. Each wreath-laying was a poignant tribute to the men and women who have served in these branches.
Following the wreath-laying, the commander called for a salute to the fallen, accompanied by the somber notes of Taps. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Commander Joseph Ruckman, who thanked all attendees and participants for honoring the memory of the nation’s heroes.
The Memorial Day ceremony in Excelsior Springs was a moving reminder of the courage and dedication of the military community, bringing the town together in a shared moment of respect and remembrance.
The Clay-Ray Veterans Association is a collaborative partnership that brings together the American Legion, VFW, American Legion Auxiliary, and VFW Auxiliary of Clay and Ray counties in Northwestern Missouri. Through their joint events, outreach programs, and community initiatives, the association works to provide essential services, advocacy, and recognition for veterans, ensuring their sacrifices are acknowledged and appreciated. For more information on how you can get involved with the Clay-Ray Veterans Association, contact them at (816)630-7711 or email at clayrayvets@gmail.com.
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