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Why We Remember
Memorial Day 2012...
By Christy L. Riley
America, the beautiful and brave your song sings ever true to my heart;
as then slight reminders and glimpses of your many trials and wars
fought comes to mind. On this day, we come together to remember, to
honor, to reflect, to thank, and commemorate all who have fallen in
combat as heroes and sheroes because of the ultimate sacrifice they
gave with their lives. Tomorrow, today, and yesterday I will thank, be
grateful, and reflect upon the very blessing we have called freedom.
Monday, May 28, 2012, a parade occurred down South Broadway stretching
all the way to Greenville-Union Cemetery. Afterwards a ceremony was
held to honor and remember veterans, as well as the brave men and women
who fought, served, and some who gave their lives for our freedom.
Children, teens, young adults, adults, and senior citizens anticipated
the start of the parade. During the parade, everyone waved their
American flags and saluted those who marched to honor, to remember, and
to commemorate our veterans.
One by one, people marched through the parade route showing their
patriotism as the Greenville High School: ROTC, marching band,
cheerleaders, and flag girls all marched by boldly declaring their
American pride. Veterans rode and marched by as we all waved our flags
in support and thanks for their service rendered.
Afterwards, a succession to the Greenville-Union Cemetery continued as
cars and people all joined the parade to pay their respects as all of
us remembered and honored our men and women in service for our freedom
and the cause making America great.
The gathering at the Greenville-Union Cemetery enjoyed a brief ceremony
featuring the Greenville High School Band who played special patriotic
music to honor and memorialize our service men and women past, present
and future.
Also included in the program, Chad Denman of the Greenville High School
ROTC recited Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
Following the Gettysburg Address, the keynote speaker, Joseph R.
Lenhart (Past State Commander of the Disabled Veterans), gave his
speech. He inspired everyone to always remember those who fought, and
died to preserve freedom and America.
A moment of silence followed to commemorate our veterans; next the
Color Guard made a gun salute, as all gathered reflected upon heroes
for whose sacrifice and commitment we are forever grateful. The
Greenville High School Band played several patriotic songs and a
trumpet Taps salute for our veterans.
We remember what was done because we are Americans; we are proud of the
many heroes and sheroes who gave their all because of America and
freedom. Let freedom ring!
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