The American Legion Post 927 in Gilbert held its annual Memorial Day event on Monday. Following the Pledge of Allegiance a POW/MIA cover was ceremoniously placed on the back of an empty chair to honor those veterans.

Everett Shaver, president of the Legion Riders for 12 years and a 28-year Air Force veteran said, “We’re remembering all those lost in service and after service.”

State Rep. Jack Rader, R-Monroe, said, “This day reminds us how united, brave and generous our people are.”

Members rang a bell for each of 13 names recited for those lives lost in the past year.

State Rep. Rosemary Brown reminded the crowd of a statement by President Ronald Reagan at a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11, 1985, in Arlington National Cemetery. “But most of them were boys when they died, and they gave up two lives - the one they were living and the one they would have lived.”

Following the indoor ceremony the crowd gathered outside as the flags were raised.

It was noted that 22 veterans a day “lose the war at home.”