Memorial Day 2011

There's nothing like the flavor of a small town Memorial Day.  This morning I was in Columbus, WI. 

First the grade schoolers laid flowers and planted flags at the foot of a statue honoring local men who died in the Civil War.

The high school band played...

...followed by the middle school band.

Then everyone followed the parade to the cemetary where a short ceremony and gunfire salute took place.  The minister who spoke honored those who have lost their lives, and those who have and continue to serve our country each and every day.   As do I.