Memorial Day ceremony honors 500 veterans at Ephrata Cemetery

“It is estimated that more than 1.1 million have died defending the United States in wars and combat actions since the Revolutionary War. They each have a story to tell.”

— Mike Montaney

EPHRATA — American flags fluttered in the breeze Monday morning as community members gathered at Ephrata Cemetery to honor fallen service members during a Memorial Day ceremony organized by American Legion Post 28.

Rows of white crosses marked the graves of veterans, creating a solemn backdrop as about 100 attendees came together to remember those who served. The ceremony included remarks, a memorial prayer, and a traditional three-volley salute from commanders.

Mike Montaney of American Legion Post 28 opened the ceremony by reflecting on the sacrifices made by service members throughout the nation’s history.

“It is estimated that more than 1.1 million have died defending the United States in wars and combat actions since the Revolutionary War,” Montaney said. “They each have a story to tell.”

Montaney highlighted both historic and recent losses, reminding those in attendance of the ongoing cost of military service. He also directed attention to the cemetery itself, where nearly 500 veterans are buried.

“We are especially here to honor the 500 veterans who have been laid to rest in this place,” he said. “Look around you at the sea of flags and white crosses. Under each white cross is a grave of a veteran.”

Following the ceremony, Montaney said the event went smoothly despite some last-minute changes. “All good,” he said. “Would have been a little better if our guest speaker had made it, but that’s okay. Stuff happens.”

He estimated attendance at around 100 people, noting it was slightly above average for recent years. As a Marine Corps veteran of 21 years, Montaney said continuing the tradition is deeply meaningful.

“My mission is to make sure that every veteran in this cemetery has a flag and a white cross on their grave,” he said. “We found four more today, and I’m on my way to make sure that happens.”

Jane Montaney, also a member of American Legion Post 28, said the steady turnout reflects ongoing community support for veterans and their families.

“I actually think it went over pretty well,” she said. “We have a nice group of people that came out and just hope that it continues throughout the year.”

She added that attendance is typically consistent year to year, with some variation. Beyond the annual ceremony, she said the organization works to connect with military families in the area.

“We know that the families serve, too — most especially the children,” she said. “We just want to let people know we’re here. We may not be experts, but there may be some things we can do to help.”

The ceremony concluded with a prayer for peace and a final salute, as attendees took time to walk among the graves, many pausing to reflect on the lives and sacrifices represented by each cross.

For organizers, the event is both a remembrance and a reassurance that those who served are not forgotten.

“These kind of events secure that,” Mike Montaney said. “To tell them your loved ones are still remembered.”

    A bugler plays Taps during the Ephrata Memorial Day service Monday.
  

    Commanders remember fallen soldiers with a three-volley salute Monday at the Ephrata Cemetery
  

    American Legion Post 28 member Mike Montaney opened the Memorial Day ceremony Monday by reflecting the sacrifices service members have made throughout the nation’s history.