By Elsie Meyers

New Hope Church held a special program in honor of veterans on May 29 at 5 p.m.

Austin Wright gave the welcome and American Legion Post 260 presented the flag ceremony and pledge. The National Anthem and a patriotic song followed. In addition, children from New Hope sang “I Love America.”

Butch Francis, guest speaker, spoke on his experience during his time in the Air Force.

Shannon and Meredith Feinman spoke on remembering veterans laid to rest and presentation of hope.

The names of several deceased veterans were called and family members went to the grave and placed a flag on the grave site.

New Hope Choir sang “God Bless the U.S.A.” In addition, other surrounding cemeteries were remembered and flags were placed on the grave.

Wars honored included the Civil War, World War II, the Vietnam War and World War I.

As the flags were placed on the graves of those laid to rest, veterans still with us were also honored in order to let them know how respected their contributions were in light of freedom.

We would also like to acknowledge and honor our active service men and women who continue to serve and protect our nation’s freedom.

We hope some parents and grandparents will take some children and grandchildren to visit some of the memorial sites. Memorial sites include Richmond and D-Day in Bedford.

The memorial on King St. in Keysville is a small memorial for the deceased veterans and family.

We need to remember the sacrifices our men and women paid when they were in service.

Pastor Allen Murphy gave the Price of Remembering and Blessing. A buffet dinner was served.

Donna Wright presented to Bert Mitchell a certificate from the church thanking the American Legion Post 260 for its support.