Veterans, Residents Gather In Smithfield To Honor Fallen Service Members On Memorial Day

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — Veterans, local officials and residents gathered Monday morning at the Johnston County Courthouse in Smithfield to honor the nation’s fallen military service members during the annual Memorial Day observance hosted by the Johnston County Veterans Council.

The ceremony, held inside the Old Superior Courtroom, featured remarks from veterans representing several local organizations, along with patriotic tributes recognizing those who died while serving in the United States military.

Johnston County Commissioner Ted Godwin, an Army veteran, welcomed attendees and thanked veterans and military families for their sacrifices.

The program opened with an invocation delivered by Sherrill G. Stevens, a World War II Army veteran.

Speakers included 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.

Throughout the ceremony, speakers reflected on the meaning of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by men and women who lost their lives in military service.

The observance concluded 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 traces its roots to the years following the Civil War, when communities began holding tributes to honor soldiers who died in combat.

Originally known as Decoration Day, the observance became a federal holiday in 1971 and is now recognized annually on the last Monday in May.

Across the country, Memorial Day ceremonies are held to remember fallen service members and recognize the sacrifices made by military families throughout the nation’s history.