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Steenbergen Cemetery

Sgt. Mark Ballard Speech

 

       Though there are no official words to the eloquent sound, its tune is recognized instantly.  

Composed by Major General Daniel Butterfield, during the Civil War, Taps is the solemn and haunting melody that stirs many emotions. It is a tradition in the United States military that we recognize to signal the end of the day. Most of us have heard it played at funerals and Memorial Day events to honor and say good-bye to a fallen comrade.

 

       Today, in respect and admiration, we remember all those who proudly served our nation, but did not make it home. Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who have served and given their lives for our country.  The military is full of traditions . . . of customs and courtesies. By understanding the history of Memorial Day and respecting those traditions, we honor those that have gone before us and laid the foundations we stand on today.

 

       From the salute rendered to the flag when it passes by, to the sounds of  Revelry or Taps, we honor our American traditions and our service members.  Like the brave veterans who lie in eternal sleep at our nation’s cemeteries, today’s servicemembers continue to prove they are willing to risk everything and to give up the comforts of life so we can go about our days freely, without fear. That is why today is a day to honor all our servicemembers who have sacrificed so much for our freedoms.

 

       It’s important that we understand that freedom isn’t free and we owe our liberty to those who gave their all.  We must stop and remember - - not only those who died in war - - but all servicemembers whose sacrifice may not have received the national attention they deserved . . . those who have been lost in other places around the world like Somalia or Grenada and Panama.  Sacrifice is meaningless without remembrance.

 

       Every member of the Unites States military follows another tradition, a code that we respect.  The military creed, though varied by each branch of service, affirms oneself to defend and protect the United States of America and the values we hold dear.  Many have died honoring this creed.

 

       Tradition abounds as we participate in solemn ceremonies across our state and our country. Speeches are given honoring those who gave their lives. Wreaths are laid. Taps is played.

  
       We recognize their sacrifice and honor their memory, but also realize that while it is the least measure of respect we owe them, it is meager payment when compared to the dear price they paid for their service.

 

       Together through their precious blood, they have helped to secure the blessings of freedom we continue to enjoy today.

 

       We offer them our eternal thanks for this irreplaceable gift.  We must remember it is a time of reflection and remembrance for servicemen and women that gave their lives.  I hope that each of you will reflect on the traditions we observe this day and the selfless service and sacrifice of the countless American servicemembers who have given the most precious gift possible - life itself.

 

       Remember the sound of Taps and the melody that carries so much emotion.  In this way, we will take the spirit of Memorial Day beyond the boundaries of one day a year. Let us continue to make sure these heroes are never forgotten, today and always. 

      

       The next time, when you hear Taps, I hope you will have a better understanding of the meaning behind the notes and you will understand the tradition. I hope you will feel the same pride I do every time I hear its haunting melody.