MCHS MCJROTC Honors Fallen Heroes

The Memorial Day weekend is the traditional start of summer, a time when most Americans spend relaxing by doing leisure activities. The real purpose of Memorial Day is to remember American military men and women who died in the service to our nation. Cadets from the Michigan City High School Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps honored those who paid the ultimate sacrifice by placing flags on veterans graves and participating in two Memorial Day events.

15 cadets help canvass the Greenwood Cemetery, placing flags on all veterans graves from wars ranging from the Civil War to the latest wars on terror. “It’s not easy getting up early on a Saturday morning,” said Cadet 2nd Lieutenant Alex Wyman, “but it is the least I can do to honor those who have served our country. I feel that, in least a small way, I am saying ‘thank you’ to all who have worn a military uniform,” he continued.

The first Memorial Day event was at the Skwiat American Legion Post in Michigan City. The original plan was to have a parade march from Ames Field to the Greenwood Cemetery and have the ceremony at the cemetery. Inclement weather forced the ceremony inside. Despite the close quarters, it was a very dignified ceremony. The JROTC Color Guard posted and retrieved the National and Marine flags to start and conclude the ceremony. Most of the Michigan City veterans’ groups had representatives at the ceremony, and the JROTC Color Guard received many compliments from these men and women who have served our Nation in war and peace.

The final ceremony was at Nelson Park in Trail Creek. The Color Guard again began and concluded the ceremony, conducted under windy and cold conditions. Along with the MCHS cadets, the VFW Firing Detail and State Senator Jim Arnold participated in both ceremonies. “It makes me good to be able to participate in these ceremonies with individuals who have accomplished so much in their lives, and are so proud to have served in the United States military. It gives me something to shoot for,” said Cadet Sergeant Quinton Dixon.

Major Tom McGrath said that the dedication these cadets demonstrate is a great example to all youth. “I think one of the most important characteristics of a great society is how it honors those who protect its freedom. These cadets have set an example for all of us to emulate.

The cadets next scheduled ceremonies will be on Independence Day when they will participate in the Michigan City ceremony and then the La Porte 4th of July parade. They will also march in the Summer Festival Parade on July 6th and work the Drum and Bugle Corps competition that night. Cadets will be busy in June with their Leadership Camp in Yellow Springs, OH, and community service activities like the Queen of All Saints Festival.