Neshoba County’s war dead remembered on Memorial Day

Neshoba County’s war dead remembered on Memorial Day

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Neshoba countians took time to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend the nation in war during the annual Memorial Day observance Monday at the Fallen Veterans Monument plaza at Dewitt DeWeese Park.

“Today is special. It is Memorial Day,” said Retired Navy pilot and Vietnam veteran David Carter, who was the featured speaker. “And it’s a time to remember those who paid the ultimate price. This is the day for Americans to stand up and say ‘Thank you. We remember you. We are grateful to you.’

Carter said Memorial Day means more than the beginning of summer, the end of the school year, and get togethers for families and friends.

“It is our nation’s time to remember those who perished, giving their all to protect our nation’s freedom,” Carter said. “It is not a day to commemorate war. It is a day  to celebrate valor and patriotism as a reminder of the cost of war and the lives sacrificed by men and women and those left behind.”

To illustrate the sacrifice of each of the 102 names of fallen soldiers listed on the Fallen Veterans monument made, Carter identified a soldier who died in the Korean War.

“We can spend weeks talking about the 102 names on the wall but I have singled out Cpl. John H. Backstrom,” Carter said.  “His remains were never recovered after he went missing in action in Korean. He was a light weapons infantry man. Take a moment to reflect. Barely out of high school, his life was cut short at a very early age. Think about what might have been possible had he survived. Think about what he gave up. He never had the opportunity to marry, have children, grandchildren, maybe great grandchildren. He would be about 93 today and we will never realize his potential accomplishments.

“Most of us veterans here today are the lucky ones,” Carter said. “We still have our limbs and the ability to lead normal lives. Just as important as those on the wall, our prayers and support are badly needed for those veterans who with horrific injuries, mental health issues and high suicide rates.”

The program started with the presentation of colors by the Neshoba Central Navy ROTC.

Neshoba County’s two Gold Star Mothers who were present, Ellon Stovall and Deborah Ladd, were recognized. Their sons. Lt. Matthew Stovall and Sgt. Joshua Ladd, both died in action in 2004 during the Iraqi War.

Following Carter’s speech, the names of the 102 fallen Neshoba countians who gave their lives for their country in a time of war, and are listed on the Fallen Veterans Monument by the war they served in, were read.

Cecil Hooker of American Legion Post 238 sang “God Bless America.” The flag was lowered to half staff and members of the 298th Corps Support Battalion and the 367th Maintenance Company fired the gun salute. Tim Moore closed by playing “Taps.”






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