American Legion honors deceased veterans

    At a special meeting of the American Legion Post 346 on Aug. 4, the Post held their Post Everlasting Ceremony which recognized our veterans and auxiliary members of Jackson County who passed away this past year.
    Commander Toman stated that “It is my sad duty to report that 35 comrades and five auxiliary members from Jackson County have been called from our midst and gone to report to the ‘Commander of All.’”
    This solemn occasion is held annually to honor those veterans who offered their life in service of our country and have now enrolled in that Great Spirit Army, whose footfalls cause no sound but will be remembered by comrades, friends and families.
    As each deceased veteran’s name was called, their names are put into a flaming brazier and the ship’s bell run to honor their spirit. Stacked rifles were arranged to indicate that these men will no longer be with us to defend our country in the event they are needed again.
    In addition to the ceremony, the Legion conducted their annual flag disposal ceremony. These flags have become worn, faded, or badly soiled and have been collected throughout Jackson County for this occasion. The U.S. Congress officially permits only three organizations to retire the flag. [These include] all branches of the military, military service organizations such as the Legion and the Boy Scouts of America.
    Concluding the disposal the member of the firing squad rendered a salute and TAPS was then played ending this special occasion.
Allen Petrash
Judge Advocate
American Legion Post 346
Ganado, Texas