Elgin knows how to party patriotically

It’s great to live in a city that recognizes the significance of our nation’s history and makes an effort to honor it on special occasions.

I just love attending the Memorial Day program at Bluff City Cemetery. What an amazing setting in which to listen to the Gettysburg Address and Logan’s Orders being read by young men from our area, music by local groups and inspiring remarks by local leaders both government and military.

The crowd always listens thoughtfully and attentively when taps is played and a gun salute signals the end of the program.

Then along comes the Elgin Fourth of July parade, and I must say that I always look forward to the Gail Borden Library Book Cart Drill Team and their good-natured attempts at precision. It also seemed like an extra effort was made this year to put more space between the musical entries so their sounds weren’t in loud competition with each other — and it worked.

Kudos to everyone who worked so hard to plan and carry out the multitude of details involved in these events, and thanks those who showed up to support them. I especially appreciated the attention and respect for the U.S. flag that was shown on both occasions. What a great visible reminder of this great nation and its special role as guardian of liberty.

I can’t wait to participate in another Elgin gathering that brings together the citizens of this community to commemorate our fabulous heritage.

Susan Heaton

Elgin