Cedar Crest Bible Fellowship Church held a Memorial Day service May 25 honoring all veterans who have served and those who continue to serve while paying special tribute to servicemen and women who paid the ultimate price by giving their lives.

"We are here to remember the many service men and women who gave their lives to protect ours; and as a result we enjoy what many do not . freedom," retired COL Walter Bortree, USAR said as he welcomed everyone to the service.

Those who have served and are serving in the armed forces and their families were honored. Recognition was given for each branch of the armed forces.

Red carnations were handed out to all veterans in recognition of their service.

A special recognition was given to Ken Earp who celebrated his 100th birthday May 19. He proudly served his nation as a member of the United States Army in World War II receiving many medals including five Bronze Stars and the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation.

Presentation of the Colors was performed by the Howard L. Peter Post # 576 of the American Legion under the command of Mel Deisenroth.

Bagpipes played by members of the Liberty High School Grenadier Bagpipers followed.

The service included a dramatization with a scene of a soldier's tombstone and friends and loved ones visiting and remembering, paying tribute to him and thanking him for serving showing the ultimate price of those who sacrifice their lives and the painful side of those who mourn them.

Guest speaker for the service was Buddy Riddle, a former Houston police officer, former pastor and currently a criminal investigator with the Austin County Sheriff's Office in Texas.

In 2006-2007, Riddle was assigned to the 977th MPs out of Fort Riley, Kan., to be a part of the state department mission to train Iraqi police. Riddle survived two severe injuries from two attacks while serving in Iraq. His message focused on facing and dealing with traumatic fears.

After retiring the colors and as a way of thanking those for their service, veterans, active duty servicemen and women and their families were invited to a reception following the service.