Ron Simon, 62, of Des Plaines, was a specialist four in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971 in Vietnam and Germany. He is the adjutant and service officer at American Legion Post 36, 1291 Oakwood Ave., and has lived in Des Plaines for 59 years.

Simon said Memorial Day means remembering veterans that have fought for our freedom and rights.

“Some made it; some did not,” Simon said. “Memorial Day is in memory of those that have protected our freedom and rights, and it’s in memory of the fallen.”

Related: Answer the question, what does Memorial Day mean to you?

Simon said he believed some service members were still alive and being held in Vietnam.

“In my heart a special prayer goes out to all the Vietnam veterans, and to those still [in Vietnam],” Simon said. “I still believe there are POW’s, MIA’s that are still over there — alive.”

Simon was set to appear with other post members at All Saints Cemetery & Mausoleum, Ridgewood Memorial Cemetery and at Lake Park Memorial Pavilion for wreath-laying services.

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