Elverson-area residents gathered on May 31 to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day - to honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States military.

Held in the cemetery located across from Elverson United Methodist Church (UMC), the event included patriotic music, remarks from local residents and a flag-folding ceremony. A gun salute and taps were provided by the color guard from Col. Jacob Morgan American Legion Post 537, Morgantown.

The master of ceremonies for the event was Elverson Mayor Bob Broderick, who began the ceremony by leading the singing of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

Marine and Operation Desert Storm veteran Troy Trupe, commander of American Legion Post 537, explained the meaning of the holiday. "Armed Forces Day is for those still in their uniforms. Veterans Day is for those who hung up their uniforms, and most importantly, Memorial Day is for those who never made it out of their uniform," he stated.

Memorial Day was established as an official holiday by Congress in 1971 and it always celebrated on the last Monday of May each year. "The idea of Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, arose from the ashes of the Civil War," said Trupe. "Since then, Americans have rallied together every year to say thank you and pay tribute to the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Our attendance today is one small spark that burns across the nation not just today, but every day."

A wreath-laying ceremony to honor fallen soldiers was held, and the wreath was placed by John Mohl, a Korean War veteran, and Leonard Creitz, judge advocate, American Legion Post 537.

Mohl also offered remarks about Memorial Day, reading a poem provided by the American Legion: "Far away from all they knew, with hearts of pride and courage true, vowed to serve as freedom's light, and through their strength our nation's might. They gave all, our brave defenders, where poppies lie, we will remember."

The invocation was provided by pastor Coleen Painter from Elverson UMC. "We of the Elverson community are here to honor and remember our brothers and sisters who died serving the cause of freedom," she stated. "We give You thanks for the freedom they fought to preserve and for their sacrifice for love of country."

Members of Elverson Boy Scout Troop 37 led the flag-folding ceremony. Scoutmaster Tom Yost read the meaning of each of the 13 folds of the flag. For example, the first fold is the symbol of life, and the second fold is the symbol of eternal life. The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood, and the 10th fold is a tribute to fathers.

"The 13th and last fold, when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, 'In God We Trust,'" Yost stated.

The Scouts then raised the flag on the pole located near the cemetery entrance. The ceremony concluded with the singing of "America the Beautiful."

The day also included a display of military vehicles by D&L Bensinger. Those who contributed to the event included members of Brick Lane Community Church, the Twin Valley Fire Department and Goin' Postal.