From Navy To Ministry: A Yukon Man's Journey Of Service And Sacrifice

As people gather for Memorial Day parades, picnics and barbeques, it's important to remember the reason for coming together.

It's all to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and our freedom.

A Yukon man has spent his entire life serving as a police officer, pastor and Navy veteran. 

As soon as Gaylord Hayes graduated high school, the next day he joined the Navy, following in the footsteps of his relatives.

Hayes was stationed all over the country and said despite being in the Navy, he never was aboard a ship but spent his time mostly in the air or on the ground.

He thinks of Memorial Day as a way to reflect on his Navy days and the many lives lost.

“When I think of Memorial Day, even though I was never injured or anything, I had many shipmates who would go out and some would never come back," Navy veteran Gaylord Hayes said. "Wondering why wasn't I with them? God had a better plan for me.”

To honor those fallen soldiers from all across the country, there are ceremonies and services happening around the state. Click here for a list of events.

No matter how you celebrate the holiday, it’s important to never forget the true meaning of Memorial Day.