More than 300 people gathered in perfect weather Memorial Day to honor our nations fallen service members at the Pelion Ruritan Clubs Veterans Memorial Service.

The SC Patriot Guard Riders stood proudly with USA flags on the curved walk to the memorial. The service began with the ringing of the hour by Pelion High Band Director Justin Craig, The Pelion JROTC presented the colors with the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Soldiers of Faith southern gospel quartet sang the National Anthem.

Special guest speaker was Col. J.D. Evans of Fort Jackson. Ed Wilkes played the bagpipes during the flag ceremony as the old flag was lowered and the new flag raised.

The Lexington Sheriff’s Honor Guard gave a 21 gun salute with Taps by Justin Craig.

A bald eagle flew over the monument during the ceremony and was seen against a clear sky.

This memorial continues to be a proud moment for our small town that brings our community together. 356 names of military people of all branches are inside the memorial including 28 men killed in action whose names appear on the granite band.