Paying tribute to veterans of war Vets Memorial holds Armistice Day ceremony

Submitted by Canton1 on
Britne Hammons Editor@vanzandtnews.com

 

Frigid temperatures and biting winds swirled through the crowd during the Armistice Day Ceremony at the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial held Nov. 12. 

Among those who braved the harsh weather and attended the tribute were numerous families, friends and veterans who came to hear Brigadier General Robert Hastings Jr of the Texas State Guard remark on the soldiers who fought in the War to End All Wars, World War I. 

It has been 100 years since the end of World War I in 1918. Hastings remarked on a few stories of wartime and soldiers who fought during the war. 

“The stories and accounts of bravery and sacrifice for those fighting for our country are numerous. I wish I had the time to tell all of them, they all deserve to be told,” said Hastings.

The colors were presented by the Canton Police Department Honor Guard  and accepting the colors were VZC Commissioner Virgil Melton Jr. The National Anthem was performed by Nicole Henson. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by VZC Memorial Chairman Ron Carroll. The opening prayer was led by Pastor Shelby Davidson of New Beginnings Baptist Church.

Commissioner Melton welcomed those in attendance. Recognizing honored guests were Brigadier General Hastings, State Sen. Bob Hall, State Rep. Dan Flynn, VZC officials and City of Canton officials. Veterans from World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam war, and current and past middle eastern wars were also recognized and applauded.  Lawrence Greer of the VZC Historical Commission shared information of all of the World War I veterans who had lived in VZC.  Dan Maucieri recognized VZC World War I veterans. Maucieri read out the names of VZC soldiers killed in World War I. 

At the close of the ceremony,  “Taps” was performed by Luke Slider and Spencer Pennington.

In tribute, the American Flag and the Armistice Flag were both flown over the VZC Veterans Memorial. 

After the conclusion of the ceremony, guests were treated to refreshments donated by Brookshires and others.