A total of 343 names were read during a Memorial Day Service at the Owensboro Sportscenter on Monday, honoring veterans of Daviess County who died in the past year. White roses were also laid on the monument to honor the veterans.
The full ceremony can be viewed here.
The ceremony has been a longstanding tradition to recognize local veterans. Last year’s ceremony was closed to the public and only streamed virtually, so organizers were excited to allow a crowd to return and pay their respects.
Pam Smith-Wright, President of the Owensboro-Daviess County Veterans Organization, led the ceremony.
“It’s very important,” she said of putting on the event. “It’s a way for us to remember why we’re able to have a day to take time to honor our veterans, people who have gone on before us and those who are fighting today to keep us free.”
Wright joined County Commissioner Charlie Castlen in reading off the more than 300 names of veterans who died since last year’s ceremony.
Castlen has attended the ceremony for more than 20 years. He’s heard the names of both his father and brother read. It’s part of the reason he decided to take over the responsibility of compiling the names each year.
“It’s something I really enjoy doing because it matters to these people who come,” Castlen said.
“I think it’s a wonderful thing.”
The VFW Post 696 handled the presentation of colors. Tara Estes sang the National Anthem. The invocation and benediction were given by Pastor Andre Bradley of Mount Calvary Baptist Church. The Owensboro Community Band performed the Armed Forces Medley.
