Raising Rural Runges: Memorial Day

Memorial Day always finds me heading back to my roots. For as long as I can remember I have been attending Memorial Day programs in Sanborn, MN - population 300 something. I have such fond memories of all the time I spent as a child with my grandparents in the Zion Lutheran Church and American Legion Colburn Post 286 in this little town. It is where both of my parents are from - and several family members still live in or nearby Sanborn. However, as time marches on, it is a place I return to with increasingly less frequency.

I was raised to show respect to God and to those who have served our country. So our Memorial Day always begins with the Memorial Day Service in Sanborn - it is not about family get togethers, grill outs, or a day to sleep in - it is all about those who serve our country and protect our freedom. If you have never attended a Memorial Day program, then I strongly suggest you put it on the top of your list next year - take an hour out of your life to pay respect to those who protected yours. I have been a member of the Sanborn Legion Auxiliary since I was 18. Scott is a member of the Sons of the American Legion, and our children have all been members of the SAL or Junior Auxiliary since birth. Keeley is currently serving as the Chaplain for the 2nd District Junior Auxiliary. Here is our Memorial Day run-down.

Sanborn Legion

Since they were old enough to walk the kids have been in charge of handing out poppies. Poppies are never "for sale" but donations are welcome. 100% of the poppy donations go directly back to veteran services.

The service was held in the Legion this year due to the rain.

A flag is placed in memory of each soldier who is no longer with us - sadly the list gets longer each year - and a wreath tribute to the unknown soldier.

Keeley enjoying the pancake and sausage breakfast served afterward - compliments of the SAL.

My Mom & Dad - Mom is the Sanborn Auxiliary President and Dad is a member of the Legion - retired from 27 years service as a cook in the National Guard.

Sanborn Cemetery

The reason I was raised the way I was and why we keep coming back - Grandpa and Grandma were very active in the Legion and served in many different offices over their years. I have never made it through a 21 gun salute without crying - it has only become more meaningful and emotional since Grandpa's funeral.

My Grandpa, Evan Brown, died from a farm accident when he was my age - only 34 years old - and he left behind a young wife and SIX kids.

Uncle Ricky

BEAUTIFUL - God's Country - even cattle in the background.

The Sanborn Corners - Hellickson Soft Water - previously owned by Grandpa and Grandma - now owned by my brother, Josh, and his wife, Franny. The Dairy Queen - owned a LONG time ago by Grandpa and Grandma as well.

Sundown Lutheran Church where some of my paternal Great-grandparents rest - Katelyn Christine was named after my 101 year old Great Grandma, Ardella Christine Anderson. Jacob and I even found some gravestones written in German - the oldest one was 1836.