Memorial Day Celebrated In Tulsa

Monday, May 29th 2006, 4:26 pm

By: News On 6

Our nation's military men and women were honored across the state on Memorial Day. It was a time to thank veteran's and to look back at those who lost their lives while serving our nation.

News on 6 anchor Craig Day went to some of those events.

Some bring flowers, others are accompanied by children, all have an appreciation for those who have served and those who were lost.

Tulsa resident Ralph Cooley: "These people gave their lives that we could have the freedom to stand right here and speak today. I think that is very important. That touches me. Deeply."

Dozens of people took part in this service at Memorial Park Cemetery in Tulsa.

Tulsa resident Jean Cantu: "It's very important to me. I had two brothers, one in the Air Force and one in the Navy and it makes me remember what they sacrificed."

Tulsa resident Joan Nelson: "I came here because without the military, there would be no United States of America."

Memorials were held across eastern Oklahoma to honor those who have served our country. There are speeches, salutes and moments of quiet reflection. And at one Tulsa area cemetery, Floral Haven, veterans are honored with an impressive display of the red, white and blue. Floral Haven's Avenue of Flags. There are 2,379 flags across the cemetery.

Tulsa resident Dan Embrey: "God, family and country. That's what it makes me think of."

The flags, flown each Memorial Day weekend for 34 years now, are donated by families of veterans.

Tulsa resident Heather Embrey: "All these people, one way or another, came before us and made us who we are."

Tulsa resident Glenda Embrey: "It does kind of bring tears to your eyes when you come out and we're trying to instill in our grandchildren what Memorial Day is."

The flags, the programs, the day itself. They're all intended to honor our veterans. A time to solemnly think of lives lost, and other lives enriched by freedom.