Memorial Day Salutes

Six-year-old Chazlie Cripps went from person to person at the Hill County Courthouse Monday, selling people red poppies.

He was a good salesman. He usually got money long before having to ask for it.

The poppies have been the red flower of remembrance for nearly 90 years, and Chazlie was carrying on a long tradition in using the money to raise funds for the good works of the American Legion Auxiliary. Kim Cripps, , Chazlie's grandmother, accompanied him as he passed out the poppies.

"You're doing this to remember the people who fought for our country, aren't you?" Kim said, prompting Chazlie on how to answer a question from the crowd.

Chazlie is starting a tradition of his own, attending ceremonies at the courthouse lawn every Memorial Day.

The traditional ceremonies went on as they had for years. The American Legion chaplain said the opening prayer, and the Boy Scouts raised the flag and then lowered it to half-staff.

The Star Spangled Banner was sung while people stood with a hand over their heart.

The names of Hill County veterans who have died during the last year were read in solemn tones.

There was 21-gun salute, and "Taps" was played.

The participants were dismissed, and the ceremonies moved on to the Elks Club where people enjoyed a home-cooked chili feed.