This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Kaysville • As the nation paused to honor the sacrifices of those who have served, Col. David Lyons of the 388th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base paid tribute to caring families, friends and communities.
The communities that surround Hill Air Force Base are known to be especially supportive of those serving in the armed forces, Lyons told the crowd assembled for a Memorial Day service at the Kaysville City Cemetery.
"You have our backs," he said. "You care for our families while we are away … and you impress us with your kindness."
Lyons' keynote address focused on the importance of gratitude — not only for those who have served, he said, but also for the sacrifices made by those who help them, especially their families.
He said he knew of fathers who had to take on both parental roles when their wives were deployed; wives who took low-paying jobs while their husbands were away; and sons who stepped up to become father figures when their parents could not be there to raise their younger siblings.
"All of us must find common ground and solidarity today to present a united front of gratitude," Lyons said.
Feelings of appreciation and patriotism brought a diverse crowd to Monday morning's ceremony.
Some, like Clearfield resident Lorena Wright, brought their families in order to establish a tradition of honoring the fallen. For those who were willing to give their lives, she said, it's the least she can do.
Steve Schmid, a veteran of the U.S. Army, brought his family for similar, but especially personal, reasons. One of his friends died serving in Afghanistan, he said, and he wanted to ensure his family never takes that sacrifice for granted.
Others who simply stumbled upon the service were glad they made the impromptu decision to attend. Carolyn Beazer, a Kaysville resident, said she was in the cemetery visiting the graves of some ancestors when she came upon the service.
She was glad she stayed, she said, and was especially touched by one of the city's Memorial Day traditions, which involves recognizing various branches of the U.S. military — the Marines, Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and Army one at a time while playing the official anthem for each.
"It was just really moving to see veterans standing and singing along," she said. "You can see that it is a brotherhood for them."
In addition to Lyon's address and the anthems, the city highlighted the service of two local veterans — Theron Twogood, Jr., of the U.S. Coast Guard, and Richard Casdorph of the Marines. Both served during the Korean War. Twogood maintained radio service in Pacific District during the war, and later became a school teacher. Casdorph, who retired after being wounded by shrapnel when his unit came under attack, later became a barber.
The American Legion Farmington Post 27 Honor Guard led Monday's service with a flag ceremony, rifle volley and a performance of taps.
Memorial Day ceremonies were held Monday across the state. In West Jordan, the highlights included remarks by U.S. Rep. Mia Love, live music, National Guard Color Guard and a 21-gun salute. The participants held a special tribute to POWs and MIAs.