CANYON CITY – “Day is done, gone the sun” – the words from “Taps” reflected the mood of the late summer afternoon last week.

Voices were hushed throughout the Sept. 11 “Service of Remembrance 2001-2008” at Canyon City Cemetery. However, during the mournful bugle-playing of “Taps,” which pierced through the stillness, even the very air seemed to be silent.

Against the long shadows of late afternoon, about 40-45 people gathered at the cemetery for the hilltop service, as Grant County paid tribute to veterans from our community.

Held on the seventh anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the service was the fruition of the combined time and efforts of several groups, organizations and individuals.

The guest speaker, Pastor Robb Foreman of John Day’s First Baptist Church, gave both an introductory speech and closing comments.

Seven officers from the John Day Police Department carried out the 21-gun salute, which was then followed by “Taps,” played by Ed Heiple. Members of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars post and the American Legion handled the color guard duties.

Military personnel from the Eastern Oregon team of the Oregon Army National Guard performed the elaborate 12-part flag-folding ceremony towards the end of the service. The team leader, Ret. 1st Sgt. Duncan Pierce, read aloud the significance behind each fold.

John Day’s Driskill Memorial Chapel sponsored the event, and Driskill staff greeted each attendee and handed out programs for the ceremony.

A roll call of names of Grant County veterans who have died between 2001 and 2008 was also recited.