Rising early to honor America’s fallen heroes, a crowd estimated at 200 gathered Monday at Warren County Memorial Airport to recall those who gave their all for their country.
“The purpose to assemble here today is to honor those who loved their families enough and loved what this country stood for enough to give their lives for their country,” said keynote speaker John Mark Windle, veteran and state representative from Overton County. “We still live in the greatest country in the world and sometimes we overlook that. We should not take for granted that the way of life we have in Tennessee and America is not free. People have had to sacrifice, including those here today and those who gave their life.”
Windle called for veterans to continue serving their country. “Our country may need you now, just as much as they did in your time of service. We need the wisdom, we need the experience and the leadership you bring to the table.”
Windle noted a new generation of Americans has stepped up to serve their country, thanks to the example set by American’s greatest generation – the generation that served during World War II. Windle said military service is important since the youth of today have grown up in a world where American has been almost constantly at war.
Windle’s comments came during the annual Memorial Day service at the airport. The high school choir performed several patriotic songs before the event and “God Bless America” during the ceremony. Mayor Jimmy Haley and County Executive Herschel Wells read the names of Warren County’s fallen heroes.
The Joint Honor Guard posted the colors, fired a 21-gun salute, and played “Taps” to conclude the program.