Changing of the flags, the National Anthem, sung by Brooke Santelices, Pledge of Allegiance by Cindy Madden and a flyover by Navy veteran pilot Paul Palmer put a solemn exclamation point on the Fourth of July at a ceremony on Turners Pond Saturday, where a Vietnam veteran was honored for his service.
Color Guard Commander and Veteran Richard Campbell received a plaque to be placed on the Veterans Honor Wall near the Eagle Park statue.
“I am more than honored … there were more deserving folks that should be receiving it,” Campbell said.
Minden’s American Legion Wiley Pevy Post 74 removed the American Flag, while others changed the service flags – a yearly event at Eagle Park.
The old flags were donated to the classroom of educator Mike Dick who spoke on the subject of “how did we get here?” to one of the largest crowds ever gathered for the ceremony.
“Everyone is a vital part of the United States of America,” Dick said. “It doesn’t matter where your ancestors landed.”
A Memorial Wreath was placed at the site by Bruce Miles, retired Marine who is a counselor at Overton Brooks Medical Center, while Mike Solomon played taps to bring the ceremony to an emotional conclusion.
