Hein (right): “… no one will be forgotten”
KINGSTON – Veterans, their families, Boy Scouts, and other patriots joined Ulster County Executive Michael Hein outside the County Office Building in Kingston Thursday evening, to participate in a memorial service honoring our nation’s fallen military heroes.
The event took place in front of the Memorial Roll of Honor, a granite
edifice dedicated last year, which contains the names of Ulster County’s
war dead, listed from every conflict going back to the Revolutionary War.
Services were concluded with a candlelight vigil, honor guards, and other ceremonial salutes, in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice defending freedom and liberty for their country.
“They all fought for us,” Hein noted. “This memorial roll of honor serves as a constant reminder of our obligation, no one will be forgotten. We are committed to insure that no fallen soldier will ever be forgotten; how can we ever say thank you. As we pause at this solemn place, we re-memorialize in granite and bronze those who were lost. Let the light tonight from our candles shine as a beacon of remembrance for our soldiers.”
Ira Weiner, commander of the Ulster County American Legion, agreed.
“Simply constructing a monument is not enough; we must gather to honor the fallen, remember their sacrifice and demonstrate why we are the greatest country in the world,” Weiner said.
While the traditional Memorial Day service and military salute continues to take place on Monday outside Kingston City Hall (1 p.m.), Ulster County’s
Thursday service helps kick off the weekend, and keep spirit of the holiday alive throughout the four days of celebratory festivities and barbeques.
