Article Display

Sumter holds Memorial Day ceremony

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jensen Stidham
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  The Sumter County Veteran's Association held a Memorial Day ceremony at Buford Mabry Park, Sumter, South Carolina, just outside of Shaw AFB East gate, May 26.

Team Shaw members along with veterans and their families attended the hour-long ceremony to remember those lost in the line of military duty.

"It is an honor to be here," said Col. William Jones, 20th Fighter Wing vice commander. "It's important to remember and acknowledge the sacrifices of the brave men and women who have gone before us and those that are currently serving today."

During the ceremony several military customs were observed, to include the presentation of the colors, raising of the colors, a 3-volley rifle salute and the playing of taps.

Guest speaker retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. William Holland spoke about prisoners of war, those missing in action, the fallen men and women of the armed services, along with the families they left behind.

"I served with a lot of good guys in Vietnam," said retired U.S. Marine Corps Master Sgt. Curtis Jones. "We can't just forget about them."