NEWBERRY — Community members braved the looming storms to remember and honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country during the annual Memorial Day ceremony held at the Edward Kyzer Firehouse Conference Center on May 24.
Retired LTC Harry Bird (United States Army) served as the guest speaker and highlighted the symbols that pay tribute to the men and women who have served our country.
Those symbols, he said, are more than just fabric and thread – they tell a story.
Some of these symbols come in the form of banners. There’s the Blue Star Service Banner, representing families with loved ones actively serving in the Armed Forces, pride and sacrifice.
The next banner Bird highlighted was the Gold Star Service Banner. This flag is flown by family members to honor a loved one who gave their life in the Armed Forces.
The Silver Star Service Banner recognizes and honors service members who were wounded, injured or contracted a serious illness in a combat zone.
A lesser known service banner, Bird said, is the Red Star Service Banner, which honors the lives and service of those lost to suicide. Bird said 8,000 veterans have been lost to suicide with 500 currently in active duty. The banner also highlights the mental health struggles and PTSD that veterans may face.
“These banners are not just symbols. Every banner tells a story,” Bird said.
During the ceremony, the names of Newberry County veterans who passed away in the last year were each recited, followed by a moment of silence in remembrance of those veterans lost.
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