Though the rain was coming down at a steady pace, none of those gathered at Memorial Stadium on Monday bothered to leave or seek shelter elsewhere. After all, spending a few moments in the rain to honor American soldiers who fought for their country was the least they could do.

Surrounding the eternally flaming World War II monument at the stadium were Selma’s veterans, their wives and family, along with residents who came to pay their respects to ancestors who died in battle.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Selma Post 3016 was responsible for this humbling and patriotic affair, considered by some in attendance an ideal way to spend Memorial Day.

VFW Past State Commander Rayburn Hill led the tribute to U.S. soldiers, along with keynote speaker District Attorney Ed Greene.

“This is something we do every year to honor our soldiers,” Hill said.

He also noted that the country is slowly losing many of its elder war veterans, and this was an ideal time to honor their memory.

In his speech to the crowd, Greene talked of the importance of never forgetting how the U.S. became a free nation.

“We must recommit ourselves to the principals and ideas given to us,” Greene said. “We cannot let our patriotism be considered old fashioned.”

Greene said the debt Americans owe to their soldiers is large, and each year more men and women are called to service for their country.

“We must honor their sacrifice,” Greene said. “We must not take for granted this great country we live in. In all that has been provided to us, one of the most cherished beliefs is that the little man can be heard in this country we live in.”

Greene added that on Memorial Day, citizens should stand with soldiers and honor their duty to their country because it was worthwhile.

“We must commemorate their service and patriotism, for the flag of this nation still flies over free people,” Greene said.

At the end of the ceremony, former and current members of the armed services, along with representatives of the Ladies Auxiliary, placed flowers and wreaths next to the World War II monument.

Hill then placed a small flag at the foot of the monument and led a prayer and salute.

“I really enjoyed the ceremony,” said Selma resident Betty Rutledge. “I brought my grandson here to teach him about honoring and commemorating those who fought in World War II.”

Not long after everyone had left the stadium, the rain slowly began to cease, and for only a brief moment, the sun came out from behind the clouds.