The Memorial Day program in my home town of Sevierville, TN, was even more special as my young cousin, a F-18 fighter pilot and graduate of the US Naval Academy, was the featured speaker. He is also an Eagle Scout and Karate Black Belt.
His dad, my first cousin and himself a Vietnam Vet, is the county's Veteran's Services Officer and organized the program.
The Smoky Mountain Community Band provided music; Scouts led the Pledge of Allegiance; old Warbirds made a fly-by; Gold Star Mothers and Wives were honored; and a very large crowd was in attendance.
A whole gallery of pics are here:
http://www.pbase.com/richardr/memorial_day_2009
Andrew makes his point in a great speech:
Video excerpts from the Lieutenant's wonderful speech are here:
http://www.youtube.com/user/Vancrich
Veterans from the Marine Corps League raised the flag:
Proud parents of the young warrior.
Congratulations from an 'old cousin':
And a kiss for mom. He may be a full-fledged man and fighter pilot but he never forgets the one who brung him.
THANK YOU, VETERANS! It is the veterans who gave their all so that we could have the Right of Assembly and Freedom of Speech to enjoy a day such as this.
Dick
Vince aka VINNIE 
