A small but respectful crowd gathered Sunday afternoon on Cleveland Street beside the Varnado Store Museum in a Memorial Day remembrance of American servicemen and woman who lost their lives during our wars and conflicts.
The ceremony, which is organized annually by Museum director Terry Seal, featured a 21-gun salute by the Honor Guard of American Legion Post 24. A 21-gun salute is actually three volleys from seven guns.
After Mrs. Seal’s welcome and the opening prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Post 24 Commander Donnie Kuhn.
Dr. Chip McVea, a Franklinton dentist sang the National Anthem. Brother Wayne, a Franklinton poet, recited a poem he had written for the occasion, and attorney John Gallaspy of Bogalusa recited ‘Flander’s Field’, a tribute poem written during World War 1.
After the Honor Guard’s 21-gun salute, the somber notes of ‘Taps’ followed, performed by the Post 24 bugler.
The Remembrance Ceremony is held every year, and those who missed it this year are invited to attend next year.
