Last Thursday was truly a red-letter day for those gathered at Mountain Home National Cemetery.
Cemetery director Jeny Walker and Dean Borsos – the director of the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center – welcomed Gold Star families, veterans, various dignitaries and the general public to the official opening of a new section of the National Cemetery. The event fell on Flag Day and the U.S. Army’s 243rd birthday, which gave a noteworthy ceremony additional meaning to those in attendance.
Randy Reeves, the VA Undersecretary for Memorial Affairs, gave the keynote address and Bill Darden, Senior Field Representative for Congressman Phil Roe, also offered remarks. The ETSU jazz ensemble provided the music while the Vietnam Veterans of America #979 Color Guard presented the colors and the American Legion #3 and #265 Honor Guard offered a three-volley rifle salute.
Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America #979 Color Guard present the colors during a ceremony marking the opening of a new annex to the Mountain Home National Cemetery last Thursday. PHOTOS BY DAVE ONGIE
The American Legion #3 and #265 Honor Guard prepare to fire a three-volley rifle salute during the ceremony.
Korean War veterans listen to the keynote address, which was delivered by Randy Reeves, the Undersecretary for Memorial Affairs.
Members of the ETSU Jazz Ensemble Brass provided music for the event.
