Friday, March 29, 2024
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, said in unison, the audience joined in singing “The National Anthem.”

Memorial Day program held Monday in Vienna

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, said in unison, the audience joined in singing “The National Anthem.”

The Memorial Day program, that has become a tradition in Vienna, was held Monday on the grounds of the Carnegie Library in Vienna.

As the Johnson County courthouse clock struck 11 a.m., patriotic music could be heard echoing around the historic square.

A welcome was given by Loudene Lemme, regent of the Daniel Chapman Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. She said, “I see a strong and patriotic community here.” The patriotic event is co-sponsored each year by the chapter, along with other groups of the county. This year’s co-planners were members Clea Russell and Jani Jones.

Following the Pledge of Allegiance, said in unison, the audience joined in singing “The National Anthem.” Lisa Conley served as the musician of the day, providing piano accompaniment along with playing the prelude.

Lemme announced an Award for Promoting Patriotism through Education, to the Beggs-Gurley VFW Post No. 5222. The Vienna VFW post provided a project on the American Flag recently with the students of Vienna Grade School, that included the retirement of an old flag and the presentation of a new one.

Mac Obourn, age 90+, of Vienna was recognized during the Memorial Day service for being the oldest veteran present at the event.

A second award was presented to Jani Jones, who volunteered for last year’s Project Patriot, in which 19 packages were mailed to overseas military personnel by the DAR Chapter and other community volunteers.

Jones introduced the speakers, Jan Segatto and Randall Kizziar, who with Joshua Schiff, director, have organized Boots to Suits Inc. The organization, with headquarters in Vienna, exists in order to help servicemen coming off active duty to make the transition to civilian life, which is very often a challenge.

So far, the organization has assisted some thirty new veterans, in writing resumes, applying for scholarships and grants, searching for available benefits, and other services. They also use the services of volunteers in research and in counseling the veterans. Schiff, Kizziar and Segato are available as speakers to area organizations. Boots to Suits Inc. can be seen online at boots2suits.com.

DAR members conducted the placing of a memorial wreath near the Johnson County Honor Wall.

Bill Russell, prior to the Retiring of the Colors by a scout, gave the benediction as the audience sang “My Country Tis of Thee.”