Memorial Day Services – 2006Once again I had the privilege to participate in the Memorial Day Services at Maplewood Cemetery. I only stood by the Rock County VFW 2757 Auxiliary flag, but what an organization it represents. I have belonged for 54 years and I believe I have helped at Memorial Day at least 50 of those years, plus that many years of poppy sales. Do you remember when we used to serve breakfast at the VFW at 7:30 a.m., then a parade — on to the Palace Theatre for the program — then to Maplewood Cemetery for the tribute to the war dead? Then on to Beaver Creek to render the same salute.And now we have the Avenue of Flags. What a thrill to go out at 7 a.m. — put up the flags — have the program and salute — on to Beaver Creek — back for a potluck dinner. Later, at 7 p.m. go back to the cemetery and help fold the flags and put them in storage for another year. There are approximately 120 flags at Maplewood Cemetery, 30 at the Catholic Cemetery and 30 at Minnesota Veterans Home, all with deceased veteran’s names printed on them. That’s a lot of flags and poles to put away.The idea of the Avenue of Flags was started by LeRoy Luitjens, the late Charles Braa and Ron Maxwell and was dedicated in 1976, 30 years ago. The memorial site where the program is conducted was dedicated in 1974. All were funded by the American Legion and the VFW.I gathered some of this information from Leroy Luitjens, Dorothy Maxwell and Luella Braa and the all important dates from the Rock County Star Herald. I’ve gone through back papers many times to find information I needed. I thank my friend, Roger Tollefson, for allowing these records to be so readily available. I personally want to say "thanks" to Rick Peterson for his wonderful speech about patriotism, citizenship and respect for all of our veterans. I heard nothing but praise for his words of wisdom. I also share his memories and have tried to teach my children the respect for the flag, the flag I am so proud of when I’m able to put it next to my husband’s (Red Iveland) grave on Memorial Day. A flag I proudly carry in parades as long as I am still able.Betty IvelandLuverne