Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Robert Jordan | Veterans of World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War and the Global War on Terror gather...... read more read more
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WILMINGTON, N.C. - Veterans of World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War and the Global War on Terror gathered with friends, family, serving military of every branch, National Guard, Reserve and active duty, to honor those service members who gave “the last full measure of devotion” at the 50th Memorial Day observance held at the Battleship North Carolina, in Wilmington, North Carolina, May 25, 2015.
Hundreds in the crowd waved flags and stood for veterans past and present as Maj. Gen. Greg Lusk, the adjutant general of North Carolina, gave the keynote address.
“We as Americans (gather) never forgetting and always honoring them,” said Lusk.
The observance blends the patriotic with the somber.
The band played selections of each military service’s - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine and Coast Guard - song. Veterans, young and old, stand as their branch is recognized. Other songs sing of battles won and love of country.
A veteran of the Battleship’s WWII campaigns in the Pacific, Dale States, posed for photos and shared stories with those who lined up, some as young as 8 years old, to thank a member of the "Greatest Generation."
“(It’s) an honor,” said States.
Prayers were given for those who were lost in battle and the families left behind. Elected officials and local leaders pledged the support of state and nation. A memorial wreath was dedicated and laid in the waters off the side of the massive WWII battleship.
“It is a day to remember sacrifice,” said U.S. Sen. Richard Burr.
Lusk highlighted the cost of war and praised the duty of a hometown North Carolina National Guard veteran killed in 2009 in Iraq, Sgt. 1st Class Edward Kramer.
“He selflessly served his community in the North Carolina National Guard and as a (local) firefighter and first responder,” said Lusk.
Between hugs and tears were smiles and handshakes as all thanked this generation of warriors who currently serve in harm’s way.
“Join me in applauding these who are serving today,” said Lusk to an ovation of the crowd including six generations of veterans.
| Date Taken: | 05.25.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 05.28.2015 15:10 |
| Story ID: | 164817 |
| Location: | WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 42 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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