
by Lisa Hinton-Valdrighi
Retired U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Lou Crenshaw’s speech during the Memorial Day Service Monday at Historic Christ Church was delivered with brevity and included moments of humor, but at its conclusion left guests reflecting on the true meaning of the holiday and their roles in society.

The annual observance is sponsored by the Northern Neck Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America.
After a funny opening comparison of the different military branches and how they would handle “securing a building,” Crenshaw seriously said, “Our diversity is what makes us the most feared and capable fighting force the world has ever seen.” One thing all the branches have in common, he added, “is selfless service to country, even to the point of sacrificing one’s life.”
Crenshaw, who lives in Weems and is active at Campbell Memorial Presbyterian Church, has a long list of accolades and awards to his credit. He said he’s often stopped in stores and in public and told “Thank you for your service.”
“But most appropriate today is to say thank you for your sacrifice,” he said….