By Matt de Simone
The Town of Buchanan commemorated its 78th Memorial Day observance on Monday morning with a ceremony in Fairview Cemetery. Hosted by American Legion Post 93, the event paid tribute to the men and women who lost their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
American Legion Post 93 Commander Charlie Alphin served as the event’s moderator, introducing its special guests and welcoming the event’s attendee saying, “On behalf of American Legion Post 93, we thank you for attending today’s ceremony to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great nation and for the freedoms that we enjoy.”
Gene Malinowski, Commander of the American Legion’s Department of Virginia, served as the keynote speaker. His military service included time in the U.S. Air Force from 1972 to 1980 as a staff sergeant and weapons technician, followed by a stint in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1987 to 1996 as a sergeant first class and combat engineer.
Malinowski gave a brief history of the holiday and shared a story about how his wife’s father and his, who didn’t know one another at the time, both served in Okinawa during World War II.
“Maybe the only true greeting for today should be ‘I remember,’” Malinowski shared. “I remember the sacrifices our past veterans made for themselves and for us. Once you remember why we have this holiday, go out and celebrate our fallen veterans. Appreciate what you have and enjoy your day. They would want you to.”
The program featured musical selections by David Austin, including a performance of the national anthem. The Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office handled the formal presentation of the colors, and Ari Cason, a rising senior and drum major at James River High School, offered a moving rendition of “Taps.” After the ceremony, attendees gathered at Solomon’s Mission for refreshments, with all proceeds going to support the Fairview Cemetery Association.
Ahead of the weekend, the local nonprofit Sirens & Salutes adorned Fairview Cemetery with American flags, placing them on the graves of fallen veterans. The group also lined the cemetery’s fence with flags honoring each military branch represented at the site, continuing their annual tradition of honoring local heroes.
