By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Paris, Tenn.–It was a picture perfect Memorial Day Service in downtown Paris Monday, with the weather cooperating for an outdoor ceremony in remembrance of those who have fallen in war.
Speaker Henry County Mayor Randy Geiger talked of the poignancy of this being the 50th anniversary of our troops coming home from Vietnam and the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. “We enjoy the future they fought for,” he said, noting the ‘thread of sacrifice’ that underpins the importance of Memorial Day.
Participating in the services were the Tennessee State Color Guard, the commanders of local service organizations, Rev. Ed Smith playing ‘Amazing Grace’ on bagpipes, patriotic music by Brittney York, a Missing Man Table presentation by Mark Grogan. The services included the Laying of the Wreaths at Veterans’ monument and a reenactment of a military funeral.
The new Veterans Services Director Tony Lacy also spoke, noting how much he is looking forward to serving.
Commanders participating were Kathi Duncan, AmVets Post 45; Joel Taylor, VFW Post 1889; Cliff Witty, American Legion Post 89; John Cook, Unforgotten MC; and Mike and Karen Tripplett, Caring Bikers. Emcees were Ann Smith and Bernie Klink.
Photo: The Tennessee State Guard present the colors. Shannon McFarlin photo.