HAYDEN, Idaho – Friends and family gathered Monday behind City Hall for an emotional ceremony honoring fallen soldiers.
The event was hosted by the Hayden Veterans Commission.
Ian Cosby emphasized the importance of never forgetting, saying, “Remember the stories, remember the people. They’re not just numbers, they’re not just casualties.”
The ceremony included a personal story of a soldier who served.
Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Lowe shared his experience from Iraq, recalling the loss of a friend.
“You know, I lost a buddy over there that didn’t come home. I remember him and his life, and it really makes me examine my life,” Lowe said.
Lowe recounted a harrowing incident when his tank hit a massive IED.
“We ran over a triple sec IED. The IED was so massive it lifted the 68-ton tank off the ground,” he stated.
Despite being injured and paralyzed from the waist down, Lowe found strength through faith and family.
“After Miller prayed with me, a piece that surpasses all understanding came over the two of us. All fear of death went away,” Lowe recalled.
He was safely evacuated from the war zone, where he’d later receive multiple surgeries.
Recently Lowe reunited with fellow marines involved in the incident.
“All of us got to be in the same room together for the first time in 20 years, since they pulled from the tank. It was an amazing and emotional reunion,” he added.
The ceremony highlighted the deeper meaning behind military salutes and symbols.
Cosby remarked, “There are stories everywhere and lives that have really made a difference for our country.”
Memorial Day holds a significant place in the hearts of many, as Cosby noted, “Memorial Day isn’t just about thanking a veteran. But it’s more about internalizing what it took for our country to get to where it’s at now.”
