The American Legion post 73 held a special dedication ceremony on Memorial Day.

All branches of service and their families were invited to attend the ceremony where a special monument was unveiled. It was dedicated “to the past, present and future members of the American Legion Members Post 73.” The monument erected in front of the American Legion’s flag post, at 2500 Union School Road, was dedicated by the PMHS NJROTC class of 2007-2008. Chief Mark Thorman, served as Master of Ceremonies for the occasion.

American Legion Chaplain Bill Rutledge offered the opening prayer and convocation before Danny Wild, Post Commander, recognized the monument’s sponsors: Picayune Police Chief Jim Luke, Pearl River County Sheriff David Allison, PMHS NJROTC’s Chief Mark Thorman, McDonald Funeral Home, Huey Stockstill and the current members of the American Legion Post 73.

Before the unveiling of the monument, Chief Thorman reminded the attendees that Memorial Day is not just a holiday as some believe but a day of honor and mourning. The POW flag was removed from the flag post and the Memorial Day “Veil of Tears” flag was flown.

Men and women from all branches of service who were in attendance were invited to come up and be recognized.

During the unveiling, Chief Thorman played a song which was meant to remind the crowd that during the war “all gave some and some gave all.” The poignant saying was also engraved on the monument, which also read, “The price of freedom and leadership is not free!” “Taps” played to set a tone for the occasion.

Rutledge delivered the closing convocation, including “Psalm 127.”

Throughout the ceremony, the Mississippi Coast Watchers were in force and they circled the flag and monument with their antique military vehicles.

After the dedication, attendees were invited to enjoy a crawfish lunch provided by the American Legion.