VFW Post 8577 holds annual Memorial Day ceremony

By LYNETTE SOWELL
Cove Leader-Press 

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8577 took time to remember fallen members of the United States military on Monday morning at the post’s annual ceremony held at the Copperas Cove city cemetery. 
Before the event began, members of Cub Scouts Pack 251 placed American flags on every grave of a veteran in the cemetery. 
VFW Post 8577 commander Herb Wright led the program, with the post Chaplain Chris Wheadon offering a prayer. 
Wright then gave a brief speech about remembering their fallen comrades worldwide. 
“On this day, forever consecrated to our heroic dead, we are assembled once again to express sincere reverence. This grave represents the resting place of many departed comrades who served in all wars. Wherever the body of a comrade lies, there the ground is hallowed,” said Wright. “Our presence here is in commemoration and expression of our tribute to their devotion to duty to their courage and patriotism, by their services on land, on sea, and in the air, they have made us their debtors.”
A wreath was placed on a symbolic grave by the post’s senior vice commander, Dana Watson. 
Junior vice commander Lisa Hunter placed a white flower, as a symbol of purity. ” May each future generation emulate the unselfish courage of all men and women who fought for freedom,” she said.
Post Adjutant Lex Atnip then placed a red flower as a symbol of devotion and everlasting remembrance. 
Auxiliary president Bonnie Henderson followed with a blue flower as a symbol of eternity.
“Its color bespeaks life everlasting,” said Henderson. “Thus, do we immortalize the brave deeds of our soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who have given their lives on land, on sea and in the air.”
Wright then placed an American flag on the grave and stated that “the glorious colors shall wave over them in death, as in life, for everyone to behold.
“Comrades in the silent land beyond, wherever your mortal remains may rest, these solemn services we hold in tribute to you.”
“Taps” was then played as all saluted the memorial. 
After the ceremony concluded, a meal was held at the post for all who attended.