Cemeteries were banked with flowers today as Central Utahns joined in a Memorial Day observance that had its beginnings in America a century ago.
As at Arlington and other national cemeteries, emphasis was given to honoring the men and women who served their country in war-time – especially the war dead.
In some cemeteries veterans’ graves were decorated with small American Flags, but floral tributes had no bounds insofar as war service was concerned.
New Monument
Among the communities which held special observances – ceremonies, programs, band concerts, military rites – Provo stood out this year because of dedicatory services for a new granite monument to veterans.
The speaker was Dr. Edwin (Eddie) Peterson of Logan, a native Provoan, professor at USU, and former national vice commander of the American Legion.
The bunting-bedecked stand stood near the monument erected by the Veterans Council, Veterans Memorial Board, and Provo City “in memory of those who have gone to their reward in the service of their country, and of all who served.”
Veterans’ Crosses
Names of all veterans buried in the cemetery and the way in which each served are inscribed on the white crosses lined in rows near the monument.
As s future of the dedication, a copper receptacle filled with records, special newspapers, brochures, and histories of the Provo veterans organizations was prepared for sealing inside the monument for 46 years until the 100th anniversary of the World War I Armistice in the year 2018. (See story Page 16)
A half-hour concert by the Tintic High School band preceded the program. The band, directed by Ronald M. Griggs, has won many honors and trips for its excellence.
Touching Ceremony
Mayor Verl G. Dixon gave the dedicatory prayer and George E. Larsen the innovation. In a touching ceremony, a wreath was placed on the granite memorial by a Gold Star mother, Mrs. Burns B. Riggs, whose son Neil Riggs paid the supreme price in the Vietnam war.
The Ute Post 2162 Veterans of Foreign Wars, handled the flagraising ceremony and the impressive military salute and sounding of “Taps” which concluded the program. The program was emceed by N. La Verl Christensen. Two selections were played by the band during the program – “Let There Be Peace on Earth” and “America the Beautiful.”