MOUNT VERNON — Mount Vernon residents joined Americans nationwide on Monday to honor the service members who sacrificed everything to defend our freedoms.
The Knox County Career Center Jr. ROTC led the parade. Grand Marshal Jack Scott, US Air Force Vietnam, retired, followed.
Emcee Kevin Henthorn, USAF, reminded the crowd it was important to represent those not here, especially on Memorial Day.
“It is extremely necessary that we fellow veterans stand up and step in for those who cannot,” he said.
“Memorial Day is an observance, not a holiday.”
the late former mount vernon councilman john fair
US Army veteran David Doup stood up for his friend and classmate Army PFC. Roger D. Algire.
The 20-year-old Algire was killed in Vietnam on Nov. 26, 1968. After being wounded in combat, the evacuation helicopter he was on was shot down.
The POW-MIA table ceremony highlighted the Memorial Day observance. Councilman James Mahan, U.S. Marine Corps, narrated the story.
“It’s a ceremony remembering not just those lost, those who never came home, but also the loved ones, communities, and families who never received closure,” Henthorn said.
“It is our hope that you take this with you and place it deep in your hearts and minds so they will never be forgotten.”
The JROTC presented the colors and helped place the Gold Star Mothers and Daughters of the American Revolution wreaths.
Gary McCutcheon played Amazing Grace on the bagpipes, and the Mount Vernon High School band played the Armed Forces Medley and patriotic songs.
MVHS trumpeter Madalyn Noble played “Taps.” MVHS student Kale Oswald sang the national anthem.
AMVETS Post #95 performed the traditional rifle salute. JROTC concluded the observance with the raising of flags.
Below are photos from the parade and ceremony.
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