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Washington Evening Journal
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Washington, IA 52353
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Reflection, Remembrance, and Resilience
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
It was Friday, May 23, 2025. It was a day of reflection and remembrance and ultimately celebration. Burge Cemetery was reborn and part of that rebirth included a Veterans’ memorial dedicated to all the men and women who put service to the United States above personal considerations.
As most know, Burge was devastated by a tornado on April 16, 2024. Over 300 headstones were literally moved out of position. Trees were destroyed as was the shed and its contents. Seeing it that night, one doubted it could ever be whole again. But the power of people in a common cause thought differently.
A literal “army” of volunteers worked tirelessly to put Burge back better. A brand-new shed appeared quickly, 16 trees were planted, and over two dozen previously toppled headstones from the 1800s were restored and reset. The healing of Burge was shared by everyone who gave what they could of their time, their money, and yes, even their prayers.
It was decided that this would be a perfect time to add a Veterans’ Memorial as they put in the new road for future expansion. It is here because of extensive planning and fundraising. The graves of many fallen warriors are in the very shadow of the memorial. Burge board president Jesse Howard summed up why this was the right thing to do.
“We pause to remember the brave men and women who served and sacrificed for our freedom,” he said. “Their courage, their commitment, and their love of country are the reason we gather — not just to reflect, but to reaffirm our promise to never forget.”
He made it clear the two events are entwined. “This memorial and this cemetery, are symbols of our shared commitment — to honor the past, to preserve the legacy of service, and to stand united in gratitude. So today, as we lay this wreath and bow our heads in remembrance, may we also lift our hearts in hope — knowing that even in the face of devastation, the spirit of service and sacrifice lives on.”
He eloquently finished by thanking the people who attended as they honored our heroes and for ensuring that Burge Cemetery remains a place of reverence, resilience, and remembrance for generations to come.
