The American flag and Mississippi flag whipped in the wind Monday morning as the sun beat down and sounds of the Star-Spangled Banner echoed throughout downtown Starkville.
More than 100 people gathered at the Oktibbeha County Courthouse for a Memorial Day ceremony remembering the warriors who have fallen in service to the country.
Retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Harold Cross spoke about those he has known personally and through stories who died in service.
“Over 58,000 names are engraved on the Vietnam (Veterans Memorial), including my college roommate and two members of my Little League baseball team,” Cross said. “… I think they would appreciate the fact that we acknowledge their sacrifice in the springtime of the year – the most beautiful flowers, the most pleasant weather. Most of them died defending this nation in the springtime of their lives.”
Of those present, city, county and Mississippi State University leaders spoke, thanking those who have served and the families of those who died in battle. Local veterans read the names of those from Oktibbeha County who died in service – the names that are etched forever in stone outside the courthouse lawn.
“This majestic courthouse behind me is a monument proudly standing here for them ensuring that no man’s life, liberty or property can be taken from them without due process,” Cross said. “… There are many smaller monuments dedicated to them that we hardly ever think about when we use them. I think there’s a counter in here at the circuit clerk’s office where you can register to vote. The voting machines you use and the ballot boxes you use are monuments to these fallen soldiers.”
Local Boy Scouts presented the flag at the beginning of the ceremony and laid wreaths in front of the monument as “Taps” played and the flags were hoisted from half-mast to full-mast.
Lori Neuenfeldt’s daughter, Ella Freeman, was one of those placing wreaths. Neuenfeldt, the daughter of a retired Navy officer, said this day helps Ella better understand the sacrifices made for the country.
“She’s 12, so I think it’s important for her to be aware of the military’s role in the service and what they have given to really secure our freedoms here in America,” Neuenfeldt said. “I’m really proud she gets to see how the community comes together to celebrate those who are living but those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. … Always think about those who are no longer here but (also) those who still are and their families who were part of what they gave to make sure this country is free and secure.”
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Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 43 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
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