Plainfield's 2015 Memorial Day Observance

A new 20- by 30-foot flag flew at half mast over the War Memorial Monday as the city remembered those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. (click to enlarge)

Members of Johnson Jeter American Legion Post 219 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7474, city officials, police and fire personnel and residents took part in the ceremonies.

Preparing to place the wreath.

Detail of the War Memorial at Crescent Avenue and East Seventh Street.

This five-sided memorial on the grounds of City Hall was erected through the efforts of citizens in 2001.

Mayor Adrian O. Mapp and Commander Frank E. Coit of VFW Post 7474 placed the wreath.

Trumpet player Matthew Branch prepares to play the National Anthem.

The poignant notes of Taps.rang out in remembrance of those who gave their lives.

Mapp said the fallen gave their lives "so that we could live in a nation of the free."

While remembering them, he said, "Let us continue to thank God for the liberties we enjoy."

Commander Coit read the following:

"It is the veteran, not the priest, who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the veteran, not the journalist, who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the veteran, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the veteran, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble.

It is the veteran, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the veteran, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote. 

Without them, you would not enjoy the freedom that we all take for granted."