Memorial Day; Lest We Forget

There could not have been a prettier day for a Memorial Day Parade than Monday, May 30, 2022, when veterans, their families and Lewis County citizens gathered together in remembrance of the men and women lost in battle.

"For many Americans, Memorial Day marks the start of summer. It is a well-earned day off, a day to spend precious time with family and friends, and maybe fire up the grill. It is a privilege we, in this country, enjoy thanks to the sacrifice of so many generations of men and women made on our behalf," said Barry Carroll, Commander of American Legion Post #127, during his speech.

"This is a somber day of reflection, a time to remember those men and women who helped deliver us our freedom but never got the chance to step off the battlefield. It is [often easy for many] to lose sight of what this day is truly about," Commander Carroll said. "After nearly two decades of bloodshed in places like Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Yemen and now parts of Africa, we have to be concerned that our citizens may have become somewhat numb to war. But make no mistake about it, Americans are still fighting and giving their lives so that freedom will reign."

Carroll encouraged the crowd that Memorial Day was not only for the fallen but for the veterans who were still living as well. He asked that everyone try to learn more about the stories of local heroes who live among us. He also asked that everyone try to love and support those who have lost family members and friends to war, whether on or off the battlefield.

The program started with veterans presenting and posting their flags. Tom Kilpatrick then beautifully sang the National Anthem while some in the crowd sang along with him with hands over their hearts or saluting the flag.

The keynote speaker was Dr. Joey Hensley who spoke of a letter a mom wrote to an Army general after the 9/11 attack that expressed her feelings as her son enlisted and left home to serve his country.

"All over this country, mothers are shedding tears and will go to bed at night with a knot in their stomach and a prayer on their lips. We do not know what the future holds for our country and especially for our sons and daughters. We have to trust that the armed forces will help them grow into men who serve their country with honor and dignity, and God willing come home safe. I pray for my son and I pray for you," he read.

Dr. Hensley acknowledged the sense of duty, integrity, loyalty and bravery of the men and women who had fought in wars past and those who are currently serving. He gave his thanks to the veterans present that day as well as to the families who sacrificed along with them.

"As we contemplate the sacrifice of those who have given their lives to secure our way of life, let us not forget the true meaning of this holiday. What a terrible price in blood has been paid to secure that way of life for all future generations," said Dr. Hensley.

Names of Those Lost in Battle

Theresa Gifford took her place at the podium to read the names of many veterans lost on the battlefield, and in the spirit of remembrance for the biggest sacrifice one can make for their country, their names were listed as follows.

From WWI: Fred E. Lomax, John M. Wix, Jasper C. O'Guin, Paul Peevyhouse and Baxter D. Johnston.

From WWII: Leland Jones, Grady L. Floyd, Embry A. Hensley, Edward L. Alexander, LeeRoy Bromley, Norman Donaldson, W.G. Travis, Robert F. Kistler, Lee McClain, Joe H. Clayton, Francis H. Fite, Elvis Harden, Curtis E. Deavers, Percy M. Bartlet, Donald A. Seaton, Jasper D. Potts, Jack Ratliff Jr., A.B. Nicholson Jr., Lewis H. Pigg, David H. Russell, Cheatham B. Warren, Alvin C. York, Clyde L. Sims Jr., Jesse H. Edwards, John R. Downey, R.C. Curry, Edward O. White, Harry Williams, Robert M. Bell, Louie M. McKnight, William H. Nicholson, Lewis Conner and James D. Holt.

From the Korean War: Carter B. Logan Jr.

From the Vietnam War: Sammy L. Brewer, Prentice J. Bennett, David A. Seiber, Earl T. Quillen and Junior Ray Burns.

From the Iraq War: Rodger D. Rowe and Travis L. Nelson.