PESHTIGO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – On the day to remember those killed in the country’s wars, a new monument is dedicated in Peshtigo, recognizing the loss from the current conflict in the Middle East.
Memorial Day dates back to the days after the Civil War, as a way to pay tribute to those lost in battle.
That tradition continues to this day, and in Northeast Wisconsin, a monument is on display to honor a local soldier, who died on foreign soil, nearly 11 years ago.
At Peshtigo Riverside Cemetery, people were encouraged to celebrate Memorial Day with social distancing in mind.
“This year, we asked the public to wait until later on, but maybe a lot of them didn’t get the message. But that’s all right. It’s fine with us. We aren’t going to kick anybody out,” said Tony Matecki, Peshtigo VFW Commander, and American Legion Member.
Names were read of those who died in wars, but organizers say Monday’s ceremony was scaled back. There was one rifleman, firing a solo salute across the Peshtigo River, and instead of a bugler, Taps was played on a portable music device.
“It’s very important because for many, many years, veterans have lost their lives in the wars, and we need to keep the tradition going,” said Matecki.
“Now, it’s very important. It takes on new meaning now,” said Paul Drees, Town of Grover.
Paul Drees is at the ceremony to honor his son, Steven Drees, who died while serving in the U.S. Army. Steven was mortally wounded in Afghanistan in June of 2009, and died from his injuries a few days later. The Peshtigo native was 19 years old.
“It’s not going to be easy, but it’s the right thing to do,” said Paul.
On Monday morning, with family by his side, Paul Drees removed the tarp to reveal the monument dedicated to the Marinette County men and women killed in the Middle East Wars.
Steven Drees’ twin brother Chuck Drees, tells FOX 11 the statue is a fitting tribute.
“It’s very nice to see that, and to know that somebody can come here now, and see and remember my brother forever, it means a lot to me, and the family.”
The statue is one of five war memorials on display at the Peshtigo Riverside Cemetery.
The monument cost about $10,000 and was paid for by fundraising, and local donations.
