On Memorial Day in Camden, New Jersey, Gold Star parents and veterans gathered at the Dempsey Daniel Butler Cemetery to honor the sacrifices of American service members, despite the rainy weather. Among them was Jacquelyn Dixon, who lost her son, Army Specialist Anthony Dixon, in Iraq in 2004.
Jacquelyn Dixon highlighted the price of freedom, emphasizing that it is not free and that their children gave their lives so that freedom may endure. Reflecting on her son’s decision to enlist after 9/11, she spoke of their courage and honor in serving their country.
A Tribute to African American Soldiers
The cemetery where the ceremony took place is named after Dempsey Daniel Butler, a Black Camden resident who established it in 1867 for African American soldiers who fought in the Civil War. Chaplain Floyd White, a U.S. Air Force and Army veteran, noted the lack of proper burials and recognition for these soldiers, underscoring the debt owed to those who sacrificed for future generations.
Honoring the Legacy of Sacrifice
The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the more than 646,000 American troops who have lost their lives in battle since the Revolutionary War. As the Star-Spangled Banner waved in the sky, symbolizing the hard-won freedom, attendees sang the Battle Hymn of the Republic in unity, paying tribute to the legacy and sacrifices of all who have served.
Additional Insight:
It’s important to remember and honor the sacrifices made by servicemen and women throughout history, as their courage and dedication have secured the freedoms we enjoy today. Events like the one at Dempsey Daniel Butler Cemetery in Camden provide a powerful opportunity to reflect on the cost of liberty and express gratitude for those who gave their lives for their country. It also highlights the often overlooked contributions of African American soldiers, shedding light on a crucial aspect of American military history.
