Memorial Day Ceremonies Continued Despite Rain, Wind

SOUTH MISSISSIPPI -- Rain curtailed some outdoor activities during the Memorial Day Weekend, but residents throughout the six counties found ways to honor military personnel who have given their lives to safeguard the U.S. and its way of life.



Several people walked through the Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Ocean Springs, leaving bouquets of flowers and other mementos. There was no official ceremony, but flags flew at half-staff, in many countries a symbol of respect, mourning or distress.






In Gautier, rain moved the second annual Avenue of Flags from the state's only Veterans' Tribute Tower outside Gautier City Hall to indoors at American Legion Post 1992, event co-sponsor along with the City of Gautier.


"It turned out wonderful. We knew the weather was going to be bad, so we moved it inside of the building and huge crowds. Everybody was standing and singing God Bless America. Let me tell you, our fallen heroes are not forgotten," said local American Legion Commander Bill Whitely said. -- WLOX TV-13


Gautier Holds Emotional Service to Honor Fallen Soldiers
WLOX TV-13/May


In addition, Veterans Post 2539 and the City of Gulfport paid special recognition to Vietnam veterans Chief Master Sgt. Richard Etchberger and Construction Mechanic 3rd class Marvin Shields, both Medal of Honor recipients, during a Memorial Day ceremony at Jones Park. 


The annual service at Biloxi National Cemetery featured Capt. Paul Odenthal, commanding officer of Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport. WLOX reported that more than 200 people showed up for the ceremony that included threatening clouds but people undaunted by the weather. Volunteers had spent the weekend decorating the cemetery's military gravesites with small flags, and reclaimed those flags today.


Veterans Post 139 hosted a ceremony at St. Mary's Cemetery in Bay St. Louis.


D'Lo, which is reported to have had more residents per capita serve in World War II, conducted a service for military personnel who have died in American wars and conflicts.



Memorial Day Services Honor Fallen Soldiers
Sun Herald/May 24, 2015




Remembrance and Celebration Memorial Day has Serious, Lighter Sides
Sun Herald/May 23, 2015


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