MOUNT VERNON — Mount Vernon residents gathered on Monday to honor the service members who gave their lives to protect our freedoms.
U.S. Army veteran Jim Beroth, joined by his granddaughter Elise, led the parade as grand marshal. Following the parade, Kevin L. Henthorn, executive director of Knox County Veterans Services, served as master of ceremonies at the Knox Memorial Building.
As the wind began to settle, Henthorn said there hadn’t been a presentation like this in 100 years, hinting at what was to come.
Knox Memorial is celebrating its 100th birthday, Henthorn later said.
In its celebration, a century-old American Flag was raised on the east side of Knox Memorial during the ceremony.
“So just as they raised that flag 100 years ago, so shall we do again in honoring and remembering those who paid that highest price for our country,” Henthorn said
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Knox County Veterans Services Commissioner George Curry.
Mount Vernon High School student Lily Mayville sang the National Anthem.
Gary McCutcheon played “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes. AMVETS Post No. 95 performed the rifle salute.
(Below is a gallery taken by Knox Pages reporter Grant Ritchey.)
