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Memorial Day ceremony at Gypsy Hill Park presented with the help of many people: VFW Post 7814 & Auxiliary, American Legion Post 13, VFW Post 2216 & Auxiliary, VFW Post 10826 & Auxiliary; Rev. Ben Sprouse, U.S. Army Chaplain; Stonewall Brigade Band, Kris Neil, Teresa Whitesell, Sierra Losh, Julie Turner, and keynote speaker Army Col. Melissa Patrick.
Retired Army Col. Melissa Patrick (MBC Class of 1978), a decorated veteran who has received man awards including Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal, was the keynote speaker. She is second in command of Mary Baldwin College’s (MBC) Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership (VWIL) program. Her remarks remembered the fallen heroes from the Staunton area and, after the program, I asked if she would share her remarks. She graciously agreed. They can be found here.
The presentation of floral wreaths honoring fallen heroes by: Gold Star Moms, VGW Post 2216 & Auxiliary, VFW Post 7814 & Auxiliary, VFW Post 10826 & Auxiliary, Beverley Manor Chapter of NSDAR, Col. Thomas Hugart Chapter of NSDAR, Augusta Parrish Chapter of NSDAR, Shenandoah Society Children of the American Revolution, American Legion Post 13 & Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Revolution Gen. Daniel Morgan Chapter.
Staunton Councilman Bruce Elder and Col. Patrick
Bruce Elder attends the Gypsy Hill memorial every year. His family includes many military members who served throughout the years.
They served and came home, and today they took part in keeping the memory alive of those who did not come home.
Memorial Day 2012 … may we never forget.
Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
May 28, 2012
May 28, 2012
