Monday’s Memorial Day ceremony at the Atmore Veterans Memorial Monument was a beautiful and inspiring event.

Well done to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7016, American Legion Post 90, and the countless volunteers who worked hard to make the ceremony so memorable.

Even though the threat of rain loomed overhead throughout the morning, turnout was still impressive and it was wonderful to see so many people come out to celebrate our nation’s veterans.

For those who were unable to attend, you missed a first-class, inspirational and solemn event. State Sen. Greg Albritton did a terrific job as the keynote speaker, relating a tale of when the American military defied the odds because it was their duty to achieve the mission. Lana Langford did a wonderful job, as always, of singing the national anthem, and Leo Odom’s performance of “Taps” brought tears to many eyes.

I was especially impressed by the memorial roll call where Lloyd Albritton, Harold Madison, Billy Elder and Ronnie Albritton read the names of those veterans who are commemorated on the monument. It was a true reminder that freedom comes at a cost, and even a small town like Atmore has given so much in pursuit of our patriotic American values.

I have been in other towns where Veterans Day is given strong support, but Memorial Day is often treated as a “forgotten” holiday. Or worse still, it is only treated as a day off from work to enjoy barbecues or a trip to the beach. I am very happy that Atmore’s citizens have banded together to ensure that this special day is given the important attention it deserves.

Joseph Walker, the news editor for VFW Post 7016, put it best: “As a war veteran I desire no honor or recognition bestowed upon me this day. My only desire is to honor the memories of my fallen comrades in arms. They are more than just names on a monument.”