Veterans Day in Crittenden County

Veterans Day in Crittenden County

By John Rech

news@theeveningtimes.com Fanfare rang in Veterans Day observances for the centennial observation of the end of the First World War during ceremonies at the West Memphis/Marion VFW Post.

The Academies of West Memphis Band played the national anthem, “I’m Proud to be an American,” and “My Country ‘Tis Of Thee,” as veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iran, Iraq, and Somalia gathered.

The vets saluted the flag, prayed for the country and announced upcoming benevolence projects. The VFW will collect toys for county youth with the West Memphis chapter of Zeta Phi Beta. The groups will distribute through county DHS and Families in Transition.

American Legion Commander Jim FIveash announced West Memphis and Crittenden County as the newest links in the of the Purple Heart Trail. Retired USN Senior Chief Patrick Kennedy was decked out in dress uniform complete with Navy commendation and achievement ribbons from Iran, Iraq and Somalia and Navy Commendation Mail He Served on the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln where he met the 43rd President of the United States George W.

Bush when he flew in to congratulate the crew.

Bill Taylor, Purple Heart recipient Don Moore and Marion City Councilman and West Memphis mayoral candidate Wayne Croom stood together at West Memphis Christian School ceremonies to mark the day. Croom presented the Purple Heart Trail designation to the city during the last city council meeting.

Veterans and supporters gathered at the West Memphis/Marion VFW Post on Monday to observe Veterans Day, which was on Sunday this year. The gathering featured veterans of every major conflict since World War Two. Special music and ceremonies marked the occasion, which also served as the 100th anniversary of the end of World War One.

Photos by John Rech