By CM Resident, Clarence Whitefield

Freedom is not free!

That was the message of Retired Army Colonel Fred Black, who was principal speaker at the annual Memorial Day observance. Col. Black emphasized that the day was “for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.”

Col. Black cited the number killed in each conflict beginning with the Civil War. All told, the United States has lost more than a million military men and women in wars.

Quoting a familiar biblical passage, There is no greater love than this, that a man should lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13), Black added for emphasis: Freedom is not Free!

Scores of Carolina Meadows residents in attendance were themselves veterans of the many wars in which the United States has been engaged. When veterans were asked to stand, those rising represented all branches of the service and wars dating back to World War II in the 1940’s.

The program, held in the auditorium, included the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of “God Bless America” and “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” The memorial service was concluded with the solemn playing of taps by a bugler.