We can never repay them for their ultimate sacrifice, but we should make it a point to salute them for their valiant service to our country.

Commander Kevin Long told audience members during Memorial Day services held Monday morning in the upper Lehighton Park Amphitheater to remember those who paid the “unpayable debt for our freedom.”

Mayor Clark Ritter said people gathered were there to remember our brave soldiers who didn’t come back home.

Guest speaker Captain Jason Hadley, 131st Transportation Co. Pennsylvania Air National Guard, told the audience they were gathered “to pay tribute and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. On this Memorial Day, we pause to reflect on the profound debt of gratitude we owe to those who have given their lives in defense of our freedom and way of life.”

Hadley said, “Memorial Day is a solemn occasion, a time for remembrance, and a chance to honor the indomitable spirit and unwavering courage of our fallen heroes. They were sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, who selflessly answered the call of duty, putting their lives on the line for the ideals and values we hold dear.

“In the face of adversity, they stood strong, resolute in their commitment to protecting our nation and preserving the liberties we hold so dear,” he said. “They faced unimaginable hardships, bore witness to the horrors of war, and made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may live in a land of freedom and opportunity.”

Hadley said we should “remember the families left behind, the ones who have endured immeasurable loss. Their pain and sorrow can never be fully eased, but on this day, we stand united in support and gratitude, embracing them as part of our extended family.

“Let us also remember that Memorial Day is not simply about the past. It is a reminder of the present and the future. It is a call to action for each and every one of us to honor the legacy of those who have fallen by upholding the ideals they fought for.”

Hadley added, “We must cherish and protect the values of freedom, equality and justice. We must stand up against division, working tirelessly to build a more united society. We must strive to create a world of peace.

“On this solemn day, let us renew our commitment to supporting the men and women currently serving in our armed forces. Let us express our gratitude to the veterans who have returned home, and ensure they receive the care and support they deserve. We owe them a debt that can never truly be repaid, but we can strive to provide them with the honor, respect, and opportunities they have earned.

“In conclusion, let us carry the memories of our fallen heroes in our hearts and minds, not just on this Memorial Day, but every day,” he said. “Let us honor their sacrifices by living lives worthy of their legacy, by striving for a world that is more just, more compassionate, and more unified.

“May their courage inspire us, their selflessness humble us, and their sacrifice never be forgotten. Today, we stand together, a grateful nation, as we say in unison: thank you. Thank you to our fallen heroes. Thank you for the freedom we hold dear. May their souls rest in eternal peace.

The ringing of the bell followed.

Long said that since the first shot was fired that started the Revolutionary War, to the last shot in the War on Terror, America has been involved in 12 wars. He honored those fallen comrades by ringing of the bell.

He said the number of deceased are as follows; Continental Army (4,435); War of 1812 (2,260); Mexican War (1,733); Civil War-Union Forces (364,611); Confederate Forces (258,000); Spanish-American War (2,446); WWI (115,516); World War II (405,399); Korean War (54,246); Vietnam (58,235); Grenada-Lebanon (297); Persian Gulf (373); Operation Iraqi Freedom (4,423); Operation Enduring Freedom (2,351); Operation New Dawn (73); Operation Inherent Resolve (79); and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel (71).

The UVO visited cemeteries over the weekend, placing new flags on the grave sites.

After the service, a group went to Lehighton Cemetery, where military honors were presented.

Immediately afterward, the group then went to American Legion Post 314 for the flag raising ceremony and conclusion of Memorial Day services/honors.