As dawn broke over DeKalb on May 26, 2025, the city quietly stirred in anticipation of a solemn and proud tradition. At 6:30 a.m., the day began with the Mayor’s Breakfast at the Elks Lodge, where community leaders, veterans, and residents gathered over coffee and conversation. Organized with care by Frank Beierlotzer, this annual gathering set the tone for a day filled with gratitude, remembrance, and unity.
By 8:30 a.m., a gentle breeze rustled the flags at Memorial Clock Plaza, located at 1st and Lincoln Highway. Citizens gathered to pay tribute to the veterans who had served the nation with honor. Michael Embrey, a U.S. Air Force veteran, welcomed the crowd with reverence. Terri Crain Goodman’s moving rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” echoed through the plaza, lifting every heart.
Embrey continued by introducing the honored guests, followed by the presentation of the memorial wreath by Manuel E. Olalde, Commander of the American Legion and U.S. Marine Corps veteran. An invocation by Chaplain Mike Giuliano, also a USAF veteran, grounded the gathering in reflection and prayer.
The American Legion Honor Guard then stepped forward, presenting the flag and delivering a rifle salute that rang with respect. The final, haunting notes of “Taps,” played by Embrey, silenced the plaza in collective remembrance.
As the clock neared 9:00 a.m., the sound of drums and the cheers of children announced the City of DeKalb Memorial Day Parade. Led by veterans, civic groups, and local organizations, the parade wound through the downtown streets, each step a salute to service and sacrifice.
At 10:00 a.m., the community reconvened on the Ellwood House lawn for the official Memorial Day Service. Once again, Michael Embrey welcomed the crowd, standing before the historic museum that served as a fitting backdrop for the day’s tribute.
The American Legion Honor Guard presented the colors, and Terri Crain Goodman led the crowd in the national anthem. Following her performance, Commander Manuel Olalde welcomed military guests and organizations, acknowledging their presence and dedication.
Chief of Police David Byrd, Mayor Cohen Barnes—a U.S. Army veteran—Dawn Schaefer of Kishwaukee Special Recreation, and Dawn Wexell of the Daughters of the American Revolution all offered remarks that spoke to community strength, patriotism, and remembrance.
Chaplain Giuliano returned to offer a heartfelt invocation, leading into the morning’s keynote speech by Colonel Joe Jaques, retired from the Army National Guard. His words stirred a mix of reflection, pride, and resolve.
The DeKalb High School Choir lifted spirits with their musical numbers, leading into a segment honoring each branch of the U.S. Military, led by Ron Lofton and Terri Crain Goodman.
As the ceremony neared its close, Michael Embrey performed “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes, the melody rising through the trees in reverent farewell to the fallen.
With dignity and precision, the American Legion Honor Guard once again presented arms in salute, as Mark Baldin and Michael Embrey played the final “Taps” of the day.
The retrieval of colors and a traditional ‘End of Day’ ceremony concluded the event, echoing the values of Duty, Honor, and Country.
DeKalb’s Memorial Day wasn’t just a sequence of events—it was a living tribute to those who served, a reminder of shared purpose, and a reaffirmation of the bond between a grateful community and the heroes who defend its freedom.
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