Honor, respect paid to heroes in Calabash

CALABASH—Several hundred people turned out for two Memorial Day services Monday in Calabash to remember soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice defending freedom.

Staged by Nocha White American Legion Post 503, a sixth annual ceremony at the Calabash Fire Station kicked off with a flag-raising by a JROTC Color Guard from West Brunswick High School and featured among speakers U.S. Rep. Mike McIntyre and retired Army three-star general Joseph Kinzer.

Another Memorial Day service unfolded at the same time at Calabash Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7288 on Carter Drive.

The ceremony at the fire station included joint participation from the towns of Calabash and Carolina Shores, Calabash Elks, the Marine Corps League and Calabash American Legion Post 503.

Under a beaming sun, Kinzer noted it was a day to remember, reflect and resolve never to forget.

“We gather today to remember all those who died in America’s wars and indeed have not died in vain,” he said. “They were there when they were needed and they paid the sacrifice. Remember who they were, what they did, and why they did it.”

McIntyre urged those in attendance to pause and think about “this wonderful country in which we live.”

“Why are we free?” he said. “Because of the brave men and women who have worn and wear the uniformeeMillions of people sleep in peace tonight because hundreds of thousands of Americans have given their lives in the name of freedom.”

Twenty-five million living veterans have served in times of war and peace, he said.

The program closed with prayer, a singing of “My Country ’Tis of Thee” and the playing of “Taps.”

The VFW event featured a rifle squad with a salute to comrades who died in the past year.

Nearly 150 people turned out for the ceremony, which also featured cadets from the West Brunswick JROTC raising the flag then lowering it to half-staff in honor of veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice in past military actions.

Laura Lewis is a staff writer at the Beacon. Reach her at 754-6890 or at llewis@brunswickbeacon.com.