More than words can say, Veterans Day ceremony honors the many sacrifices made

COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – Under a somber gray sky, a crowd gathered in front of the Alleghany County Courthouse on Veteran’s Day to honor the service and sacrifice of the nation’s military veterans. Shawn Wright of VFW post 1033 led the ceremony, her voice strong and unwavering as she addressed the assembled crowd.

“We are here once again to express our sincere reverence,” Wright said. “These monuments represent the resting place of many departed comrades who have served in all wars. Wherever the body of a comrade lies, there the ground is hallowed.”

Wright paid tribute to veterans from all branches of the armed forces, including the newly established Space Force. She then asked the crowd to stand at parade rest as a chaplain recited a beautiful and occasion perfect prayer.

“Father of all, in the depth of our silence reverence, we realize the truth to the inspired words ‘I am, the resurrection and the life,’” the chaplain spoke. “Help us to be faithful to thee and to one another.”

Following the prayer, the gathered crowd, and assembled veterans such as James Wallace and Bill Atherholt recited the Pledge of Allegiance. With voices united to honor the flag and the country for which it represents. Wright then spoke of the monuments and cemeteries throughout the community that serve as the final resting places for America’s fallen heroes.

“The cemeteries throughout our communities serve as resting places for these and many more American heroes,” Wright said. “While not all were killed in battle, each service member carried the scars of these conflicts throughout life and took them to his or her final resting place.”

Wright then asked attendees to take time to read the names etched into the monuments, to reflect on the sacrifices of those who gave their lives to preserve freedom.

“These monuments list the names of those from the Allegheny Highlands who were killed in the battles of our country since World War One,” Wright said. “You should spend time here, read and reflect on the sacrifices of our gallant dead.”

As the ceremony closed, Wright expressed gratitude to all in attendance, urging them to continue the legacy of those who had served. “We thank you all for coming and participating in this event,” Shawn Wright said, “and I hope you have a blessed day going forward.”