People of all ages place flags at the base of the Vietnam Memorial in Eden Park following the annual Memorial Day ceremony.
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Cpt Shirley May enlisted in the U.S. Army out of high school. She used her GI benefit to become a nurse and re-enlisted in the reserves. She is the company commander for Bravo Company 801st Combat Support Hospital. As a civilian she works at the Cincinnati VA.
Captain Shirley A. May kept her remarks brief Monday morning, but her message was clear. One of the best ways to honor the fallen this Memorial Day is by providing the best possible care to those who are injured. She encouraged those in attendance to live each day in gratitude for the gift given by those who have died while serving the country."We made a promise to honor our fallen," she said. "And we must honor that promise." As a nurse, she said, "That's where I can contribute the most, by making sure those wounded brothers and sisters get the best care."
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This year's service drew mostly Vietnam and Gulf War veterans.
"Don't just make today a day about grilling and going to the beach, but really reflect on the ultimate sacrifice the men and women have given for this country."
The annual ceremony hosted byVietnam Veterans of American Chapter #10 included music by the University of Cincinnati Bearcat Band, a wreath laying, the posting of the colors, a rifle salute, and a flag tribute.
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The color guard raises the flag as the UC Bearcat Band plays the National Anthem.
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Each branch of the military is recognized by a service flag. Those in attendance are asked to stand as their branch is recognized.
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Army Corporal Rodney K. Ladson approached the memorial choking back tears as he placed his flags and offered a salute. He served in Vietnam.
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Robert O. Case served in the Army Signal Corps during World War II. He was among those who landed on the beach at Normandy. He reached the rank of Captain by the time his service was over.
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Cincinnati Parks describes the Eden Park Vietnam Memorial as, "Two soldiers, one white and one African American, are captured in a pose suggesting their grief and exhaustion – the perils and anguish of war all soldiers face. The bronze figures are atop a pink granite base inscribed with a map of Vietnam."
Senior Editor and reporter at WVXU with more than 20 years experience in public radio; formerly news and public affairs producer with WMUB. Would really like to meet your dog.
