Marlboro County School District officials and community members paid tribute to those who died while serving in the U.S. military during a Memorial Day Tribute on Monday.
Rep. Pat Henegan said they were there to remember our brothers and sisters who gave their all—their lives for our freedom.
“We should never forget that this day is for those who put honor above home, freedom above their family, sacrifice above sanctuary,” she said. “Instead, these brothers and sisters chose to defend our constitution and our freedom.”
She talked about a flyer that she read which stated there were four things supporting the world — learning of the wise, the justice of the great, the prayers of the good, and the valor of the brave.
“These words are so true,” Henegan said. “Even though this is a time of deep, deep sadness, it is also a time we need to remember the men and women who are still here. Praise them for their wisdom. Praise them for their bravery. Listen to their stories of survival. Also, who listen to their stories of courage.”
She closed with the words of former President Barack Obama—A nation reveals itself not only by the people it produces but those it remembers. “We do not remember just by hoisting a flag but by practicing in our lives the idea of opportunity and liberty, equality for all that they fought for,” she said.
She asked those present to remember that they were assigned the task of telling our loved one’s stories and the sacrifices that they made in order for us to live.
The Marlboro County High School JROTC posted colors.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Antonio Cribb and Hawkins Anderson.
Marlboro County Veteran Services Officer Amber Goings did a special reading.
It was “On this Memorial Day let us all express our gratitude and pride
For those who have gone to war, fought for us and died.
Mothers and fathers who have left their children behind
To go to unfamiliar places to protect the rights of mankind.
Bravely going into combat putting their lives in harm’s way
Fighting so that each of us can enjoy another free day.
Men and women fighting for the security for you and me
Marching to war proudly to keep our land the home of the free.
For each soldier that has served their country with dedication
Sacrificing their lives for our freedom without hesitation.”
Goings reminded everyone that the flag does not fly because the wind blows it.
“It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it,” she said.
TAPS was played by Adam Boone and Sean Townsend.
JROTC Sgt. Donald Rivers Jr. and First Sgt. Wayne Chapman did a flag presentation.
Rivers said they presented the flag as a token of their appreciation for those who have passed on and served in the military.
“We really appreciate them and on behalf of the Marlboro County High School, we commend you,” he said.
The flag flying above the district office was lowered to half-staff by MCHS JROTC.
Chapman took a moment to acknowledge and explain the fallen comrade table set up on the steps in front of the district office.
He noted that anytime a person attends a military function that you will always see a table reserved for fallen comrades.
“This is for all of the men and women who died for what we call freedom in America,” he said.
On the table there will be an empty plate, fork, spoon, and napkin with a glass that is turned over. Those in attendance will also see a lemon that represents the trials and tribulations that the soldier may have endured to let us still have the freedom.
Chapman said salt will be on the table as an indication of the tears of the soldier’s experience. A red rose represented the love that soldier shared with the country.
“No one, civilian or military, will sit at the table,” he said. “This is how the military honors all of our fallen comrades and recognizes their service and sacrifice.”
Superintendent Dr. Gregory McCord explained the difference between Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day.
Veteran’s Day is a day in which honor and thanks is given to those who have served. Memorial Day is to pay respect to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.
He had all veterans in attendance to join him for a moment of silence and prayer.
“This concludes our program but it does not conclude what we each have a responsibility to do today,” he said. “That is to take a few moments to celebrate and remember those who came before us.”
Retired First Sgt. William Henry Swift of Laurinburg attended the event.
Swift started the MCHS JROTC program.
He felt the students did great with the program.
“I am proud of them,” he said. “They have started and kept it going.”
Swift added he was proud of the JROTC instructors for coming in on a day like today and doing the program.
He thought it was the greatest thing for the district to done the program.
“I hope they continue to this,” he said. “I give a many shout outs to the superintendent for having it here. I just wish the students could have seen it.”