Citizens, local politicians and veterans gathered Monday, May 30, at the Drew County Courthouse to honor the men and women from Drew County who have given their lives in defense of our country.
The ceremony, which was presented by the Veterans of Foriegn Wars and the American Legion, began with a welcome given by Veterans of Foriegn Wars Vice District Commander Jim Lee, followed by an invocation by Tommy King. Veterans James Thomas, Billy Edwards and Larry Gragg raised the flag before bringing it back down to half staff, while Lee led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Guest Speakers were Drew County Judge Robert Akin, Drew County Sheriff Mark Gober and Monticello Police Chief Jason Akers.
Tribute to the fallen was given with veterans Tony Lee, Joel Harper, Andy Broant and Melvin Veasey reading the names of the fallen from World War I, World War II, the Korean war and the Vietnam War. Bell Ringers, veterans George Matthew and Fred White took turns sounding a bell for each of the fallen while members of Boy Scouts of America Troop 67 placed a flag in the Memorial Flag Board for each of the fallen as their names were read. A closing prayer was given by Tommy King, followed by Taps played by veteran Keith Jefferson.
