Elmore/Autauga News
Photos from The City of Prattville
The American Legion Post 122 joined the City of Prattville Memorial Day to honor the fallen, the ones who paid with their life to secure the freedoms this country embraces.
Wreaths were laid on the memorials in front of the Autauga County Courthouse. The crowd came together to honor the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.
Afterwards, the crowd was able to view the Alabama Poppy Project, thanks to the amazing work of Julianne Hansen Fine Art and Pottery. The handmade, ceramic poppies will remain on display in downtown through June 4.
Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie thanked the American Legion, VW and Patriot Guard for organizing the Memorial Day event.
Memorial Day is thought of as the start of summer, but officials wanted to remind the crowd that it is more than just a day to gather with friends and family, boating, barbecues and parties.
“People are going to shop, work, golf, fish, and swim without much more than a worry. An additional day off of work is the perception by some,” Mayor Gillespie said. “Some think that it’s a perk and not necessarily a freedom. Their ability to choose how they spend this day is a freedom.”
Gillespie reminded everyone that millions have paid the ultimate price for all freedoms Americans enjoy.
He said it is also a day to reflect on what others did to step up and protect freedoms we all too often take for granted.
Gillespie said it should be a time to reflect on all that we have, and those who gave their life to protect our freedoms.
He asked the crowd to recognize Gold Star Families, to remind them they are not alone and they are loved.
“I believe that all know that our country is under attack every day. People would like for the USA to stumble and fall. We need to stand strong and support the next generation of patriots and remember all of our fallen heroes like Bicknell, Crowell, Davis, Hensley, Mims, Northington, Pernell and White. We will never forget the legacy of Prattville’s Hometown heroes. We have their banners flying today for us to remember and to inspire.
“Julianne Hansen has the fields of poppies honoring our heroes as well. Please spend some time today honoring our heroes on our sidewalks or in the fields of poppies. I want to repeat the words of FDR and leave with you these words for a time of reflection. ‘Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy, forget in time that men and women have died to win them.’ Freedom is not free, and may we never forget the ones who have paid the ultimate price.”
