Up to 200 people braved the virus to attend the 6th Pelion Ruritan Veterans Memorial service.

This year’s service was dedicated to the memory of Benny Collings who passed away October 21, 2019, and Charlie Haggard who passed away February 12, 2020.

The veterans monument was conceived in 2014 by Collings as chair of the Patriotic and Citizenship Committee. He and Ron Clamp designed and created the granite memorial.

Contractors who gave their time and equipment at no cost to the club included Kelly Green, Jesse Jeffcoat, Corey & Dwight Rish, Tony Rucker, Kevin Windham, and D&T Steel. 340 engraved pavers bear the names of veterans who served or are still serving.

The service began with the “ringing of the hour” by Otto Hage, Pelion High Band Director. The Soldiers of Faith sang the National Anthem and the invocation was given by Rev. Jerry Branham of the Pelion Church of the Nazarene.

The Soldiers of Faith members are David Goldsberry, Kevin Prosser, Josh Quattlebaum, and Caleb Henderson.

Ruritan President Kay Collings recognized the SC Patriot Guard Riders. Josh Quattlebaum with the Soldiers of Faith sang “God Bless the USA.”

Special speaker was Col. Michael Haggard, son of Jean Haggard and the late Charles Haggard. Other speakers included Mayor Frank Shumpert and Rep. Kit Spires.

The flag ceremony was conducted by the American Legion Pelion Post #101 under the command of Mark Bays, assisted by Ruritans Steve Neese and Sam Jackson, Ed Wilkes played the bagpipes.

Shelly Laird, owner of Pineview Florist, donated the wreath.

To add a name to the monument, forms are available at Pelion Town Hall.