NEWSOMS—As Sharon Spivey stood in the pavilion at Hollywood Cemetery in Newsoms, she brought to everyone’s attention the graves that were marked with flags.

These identified people who had fought in defense of America.

“Each of these men and women have legacies and stories. So many we may not know,” said Spivey. “But there’s a common thread: They loved America and what it stands for. They all fought to enable us to have freedom. They’re repaid Newsoms well. For a small community, you can be proud. It’s evident in the names.”

Spivey, an ordained minister, referenced her late husband, Ron, who was a Navy veteran; he died in 2008.

She recalled a visit to his graveside and saw two nickels.

Who put them there and why she doesn’t know. But Spivey did note the inscription of “Liberty” and “In God We Trust” on each coin.

Spivey said what she does know is that Ron “loved the Navy so much. I guess that’s why so many people have served our country.

They believed so strongly. They served by putting themselves in harm’s way and made the ultimate sacrifice.

“Let us not forget the cost.”

When she’s at the cemetery, Spivey said, she tries to image what kind of stories of the people — especially veterans — are buried there.

In closing, she quoted Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf, who said, “True courage is being afraid and going ahead and doing your duty.”