Bob Watts said Sunrise went through 50 gallons of coffee last year during the Memorial Day service in Hermantown.

On Monday, they might have gone through 50 cups.

There was nothing but blue skies for the 2010 Memorial Day service at the Hermantown park, and several hundred people came out to show their respects for our veterans.

Watts, a World War II veteran and organizer of the program, told the audience it is OK to get emotional when you are talking about veterans and their sacrifices.

Chip Cravaack made the same statement in his speech. The United States Naval Academy graduate and retired captain was one of the guest speakers at the event.
“Here lie not just heroes, but those we call by name,” Cravaack said.

To the veterans living today, Cravaack said we as a country not only thank you but honor you on Memorial Day.

Hermantown Mayor Wayne Boucher asked us to never stop remembering our veterans. He said veterans have given us the choice to come to a Memorial Day service or do something else this day.

While none of us wants war, Boucher said it is important for the country to support the troops that are in harm’s way.

Col. Penny Dieryck, of the 148th Fighter Wing, said her unit has members deployed all over the world serving the United States. Some are in combat operations, while others are helping deal with the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Daniel Hartman, program director of the Veterans’ Memorial Hall, noted that Memorial Day services have been going on in Duluth since 1871 and started with a parade.

The Combined Honor Guard gave the 21-gun salute during the service.

The Honorable Judge Bouschor once again played the bagpipes before and after the service.

The Patriot Guard stood with their flags during the entire ceremony.

Rev. Tim Ludwig spoke the opening and closing prayer.

Bill Bastian was the vocalist for the event.