Sometimes simpler is better....

If you watched the news on Memorial Day, you saw the exhaustive coverage of Memorial Day events.

Parades, wreath layings, special services.

And while many had the glitz of marching bands, prominent politicians, and floats, they may not have had the home-grown warmth that was reflected at the Memorial Day observance at the Knopf Cemetery. 

Annually coordinated by Kingwood United Methodist Church, the 35-minute program brings together multiple generations from veterans to Boy Scouts and just about everyone in between.

Members of Troop 401 salute the flag

The program proves that you don’t need the aforementioned bands and floats to drive home the importance of the holiday.

In fact, it was Buffalo Grove Board President Jeff Braiman, one of handful of presenters, who hit the nail on then head when he told the 100 persons in attendance that the importance of Memorial Day is not found in at shopping malls offering special sales, but rather in the time it takes to remember and honor the nation’s military veterans.

Joining Braiman in presenting remarks were Lake County Board member David Stolman, and Kingswood church members Janet Kyte, Mark Rhode and Jeff Koppenhaver.  Rev. James Preston presented the invocation and benediction.

One of the coolest parts of the ceremony was the involvement of Boy Scout Troop 401 of Kingswood United Method Church under the direction of Dave Stickley of Kingswood.  The troop, whose members are a blend of diversity that has become the fabric of America today, handled the flag ceremonies, which included the retirement of the cemetery’s flag, the presentation of the new one, the pledge and the flag retirement ceremony.

Members of Troop 401 retire the flag that flew at Knopf Cemetery

More than simple parts of the program, the Troop handled each with the utmost respect and provided insightful information – especially about the flag retirement.

Parades -- They’re fun.

Wreath layings -- Meaningful.

But what can you say about a multi-generation program put together as a community service by a local house of worship?

Just two words.

Well done.