Wood County paused briefly but somberly in the district courthouse in Quitman Monday morning in remembrance of those who gave their lives in defense of the nation and democracy.

The ceremony, that has been held at the courthouse for 25 years, was moved indoors due to the stormy weather, and necessitated what master of ceremonies James Attaway called “Frago” in military terms, meaning fragmentary orders.

The customary color guard was not held as is normal on the courthouse lawn, with Attaway explaining that the flag is raised to half mast at dawn and then raised later to signify the remembrance of those fallen.

The gold star family of Sgt. Joshua Powell of Quitman was in attendance, representing those whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice. He was killed in action June 4, 2011 in Afghanistan.

US Army Sgt. 1st Class Patrick Grant gave the remarks. The 1993 Quitman graduate recalled crossing paths with Attaway when they were both serving in Operation Enduring Freedom.

He explained that his unit lost several members during the conflict.

“It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and busyness of life,” he said.

But this (Memorial Day) is not just another day off, and it is not to be confused with other holidays that honor veterans.

It is to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

They come from all walks of life, he said, but what they have in common is the willingness to put everything on the line for their country, and we are stronger because of them.

We should honor them with our actions and live our lives in a way that exemplifies the values that they fought for.