CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – (CLARKSVILLENOW) William O. Beach Civic Hall was filled Monday as more than 300 people, including many veterans, family members and friends of veterans, remembered and honored those who have given their all in service to our nation.
The Montgomery County Veterans Service Organization hosted the annual Memorial Day Ceremony in Veterans Plaza. Montgomery County Mayor Jim Durrett talked about the fallen veterans. “I stand here and each and every person stands here because someone gave their life for the freedoms we enjoy each and every day,” Said Durrett.
“It’s fitting to say thank you to all who are serving or have served in our United State Armed Forces and their family members. We take time to remember your dedicated service and your sacrifice. Today, on Memorial Day, we remember those service members who fought and died protecting and defending America,” said Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts.
Guest speaker for the ceremony was Lieutenant General Ronald Bailey who is retired from the United State Marine Corp, and now serves as the Vice President for External Affairs at Austin Peay State University. Bailey graduated from APSU in 1977 and is only one of four graduates of the university to be promoted to the rank of General.
Bailey talked abut the true values of those who have given their last full measure. “Courage, commitment, selflessness, these are all of the values that those who are not here with us today demonstrated in their performance and also giving the ultimate sacrifice for this nation,” Bailey said.
General Bailey, Mayor Durrett and Mayor Pitts placed a wreath which symbolizes the tradition of placing flowers on the graves of fallen service members. Sixteen other local veterans service organizations also presented wreaths honoring their fallen comrades.