By Karen Hall

Editor

"I thank each and every one of you," said County Mayor Joe Boyd Liggett to the veterans who assembled on the square at 11 a.m. Monday, along with family members, and others who remember that Memorial Day is more than just a day off work.

"I am humbled and honored," Liggett continued. "I hope to show honor and respect to those who gave their all."

He talked about heroes in the recent past, and then read the story of David from 1 Samuel 17.

"David was a boy hero," Liggett said. "Many of our veterans were boy heroes. Look at the heroes we are here today to honor. Duty called them, and then suddenly life was over.

"You as Americans have shown you care," he said. "They did not die in vain. It's up to us to pause and give thanks and remembrance to the true American heroes. We must remember: freedom isn't free."

American Legion Commander Paul Recker was the Master of Ceremonies.

Rev. Leland Carden gave the invocation and the closing prayer.

"The Star-Spangled Banner" and "God Bless America" were sung by Beth McDaniel, a graduate of Marshall County High School and Middle Tennessee State University.

State Sen. Jim Tracy thanked veterans and their families.

"It's a great honor for me to be here today," Tracy said.

Also present on the courthouse steps were State Rep. Billy Spivey and Sheriff Norman Dalton.

The fresh wreaths, made by Melody Spence and Betty and Jerry Petty, were placed by Tommy Spence, Betty and Jerry Petty, Rick Roberts, Larry Hastings, and Hundley Ford Sr.