Service honors sacrifices, veterans’ park dedication

Photo by Dwayne Bradley Commission Chairman Dr. Rob Peck, left, and Betty Bradley honor 100-year-old veteran, Ralph Myers during the dedication of the Veterans Park on Memorial Day. The day combined two events, remembrance of those who sacrifi ced their lives for their country and the debut of the park honoring all veterans. In the foreground are veterans Carl Maxwell and VFW Commander John Clodfelter who led the Memorial Service.

Photo by Dwayne Bradley Rob Peck, Betty Bradley, Debbie Mauney, Merinda Woody, Helen Davis, Teresa McClure and in back row, Randy Nichols, Scotty Penland, Clay Logan and Dwight and Sissie Penland applaud the speaker.

Photo by Dwayne Bradley Hayesville High School Band member Gage Brown plays a moving rendition of “Taps.”

Photo by Dwayne Bradley American Legion Auxiliary member Teresa McClure, left, and VFW Auxiliary member Helen Davis, conduct the traditional laying of the wreaths on center stage.

Lorraine Bennett • Clay County Progress Crowds fl ocked to the Clay County Veterans Park Memorial on May 26 to honor and remember those who died while defending our nation in the line of duty and to commemorate the opening of the new park. Crowd size was impossible to accurately count, but estimates put it at upwards of 500. After the ceremony many moved to the Black and Gold Center to enjoy a catered luncheon prepared by Epic.