On May 29, the Pelion Ruritan Club held a Memorial Day service at the town’s Veterans Memorial. Those in attendance heard from Joe Savage, president and chaplain of the club, along with Pelion Mayor Frank Shumpert, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Scotty Boler, and state Rep. Ryan McCabe. 

“Memorial Day is a time for reflection,” the mayor said. “Today we take a moment to stop and pay respect to the approximately 1.3 million Americans who gave their lives in the defense of our great nation. 

“On this day of remembrance, I hope that all Americans remember the dream of those who committed the greatest sacrifice,” Shumpert added.

The service included the changing and raising of the memorial’s flag and the presentation of a wreath. The Soldiers of Faith sang the National Anthem and other patriotic songs, and Ed Wilkes played “Amazing Grace,” “God Bless America” and a military medley on the bagpipes.