Public Invited To Annual Memorial Day Observance At Johnston Courthouse

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – The Johnston County Veterans Council will hold its annual Memorial Day ceremony, bringing together veterans organizations, local officials and residents to honor military service members who died while serving the country.

The ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday, May 25, inside the Old Superior Courtroom at the Johnston County Courthouse in downtown Smithfield.

The observance will include remarks from veterans representing several local organizations.

Scheduled speakers include Lalonzo Chambers of the Marine Corps League Carry On Detachment 1236, Reggie Parker of American Legion Post 346 in Four Oaks, Mike Arrington of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5955 in Selma, and Tom Holcomb of American Legion Post 405 in Pine Level.

The ceremony will open with an invocation by Sherrill G. Stevens, a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army. Johnston County Commissioner Ted Godwin, also an Army veteran, will deliver welcoming remarks.

The program will conclude with a wreath-laying ceremony, followed by a firing party conducted by the American Legion Post 346 Honor Guard and the playing of taps.

Memorial Day is observed annually to remember and honor military personnel who died in service to the United States.