By Ronnie Smith

For the Salisbury Post

Memorial Day is Monday, May 27.  This is the time when we honor and remember our military veterans who honorably served our country so that we may enjoy our freedoms.

In anticipation of this national holiday, on Saturday morning, May 26, at 8 a.m., local scouts, high school ROTC students, veterans and citizens are invited to gather at both Salisbury National cemeteries to place more than 19,000 miniature American flags on the graves of military veterans. Participants are encouraged to bring a screwdriver or other instrument to help in placing the flags in the ground.  

On Monday, May 27, at 10 a.m., a ceremony will be held at the Salisbury National Cemetery Annex behind the VA Medical Center on Brenner Avenue to honor and pay tribute to all veterans from all wars.

Monte Bruce, commander of the Harold B. Jarrett American Legion Post, will lead the ceremony which will include Executive Director of the Salisbury VA Medical Center Kevin Amick as the featured speaker. The Rowan County Honor Guard will provide a 21-gun salute and taps, Chaplain Lee Robinson will have a prayer and Mayor Karen Alexander will read a proclamation during the ceremony. The public is invited to attend the Memorial Day ceremony and is encouraged to bring a folding chair.  

The Salisbury National Cemetery Annex is located at 501 Statesville Blvd., Salisbury.