The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – MEMORIAL DAY, a day of remembrance and gratitude, is a time when we pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. From a grateful Alleghany Highlands community, Curtis A Smith VFW Post 1033 and auxiliary held a Memorial Day ceremony at the Farmers Market on Monday, May 26, 2025. Commander Shawn Wright conducted the service that honored all the veterans who served on foreign soil and never returned home to their families.
Members of the post participated by laying roses that had a significance to the veteran. Dale Comer laid the white rose for remembrance. The white rose pays tribute to those who have fallen. Bill Atherholt laid the red rose representing the sacrifice and bravery of service members. Marian Paxton
laid the blue rose representing loyalty and ideals of service. The final tribute, the red, white and blue wreath, honors all veterans and was placed by Martha Terry and Bill Atherholt. Let us never forget the freedoms we enjoy in the United States of America because of these fallen and all veterans who
continue to serve their country for those freedoms.
This article closes with a Memorial Day Prayer that can be seen in the window of the Discovery Center on Main Street.
They served and fought and died
So that we might be safe and free
Grant them, Oh Lord, eternal peace
and give them the Victory
And in these days of unrest
filled with grave uncertainty.
Let’s not forget the price they paid
to keep our country free.
(Helen Steiner Rice)
Curtis A Smith VFW Post 1033 showed up in great numbers to support the annual Memorial Day ceremony to honor all those who paid the ultimate price. Left to right; Debbie Rodgers, Cindy Arthur, Cheryl Karch, Loretta Lambert, Patty McAnnally, Lora Dietrich and Amanda Burns. (Photo courtesy Marian Paxton)
Members of Curtis A Smith VFW Post 1033 post and Auxiliary present 2025 Memorial Day ceremony to honor all the veterans who gave their lives for their country. Left to right; Marian Paxton, President; Dale Comer, Junior Vice Commander; Paul Linkenhoker, Chaplain; Bill Atherholt, Quartermaster; Martha Terry, Treasurer; Commander Shawn Wright. (Photo courtesy Marian Paxton)
A-1 Studios Dance and Performing Arts, owned by auxiliary member Amanda Burns, is an avid supporter of Curtis A Smith VFW Post 1033 and auxiliary. The studio participates in all our programs including our Valentines for Veterans project and is very active in our Youth Activities Program. A-1 Studios performed at the Kars Unlimited Veterans in the Park event on May 24th and brings job to local nursing homes by taking their talents to entertain them. (Photo courtesy Marian Paxton)
