ROANOKE RAPIDS — Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids took part in a national ceremony Saturday at noon to honor fallen U.S. military veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces. In cemeteries across the nation, including Arlington National Cemetery, ceremonies identical in spirit were happening simultaneously.

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Butch Clopton, of the Civil Air Patrol, acted as Master of Ceremonies for the event and provided the opening remarks. In his welcome, Clopton said Wreaths Across America was honoring those who “protect not only Americans and their way of life, but free men all over the world.”

Clopton pointed out the simultaneous ceremonies across America were designed to show “we’re one nation and one flag.”

“Our nation stands as a shining beacon to freedom and liberty for the entire world,” Clopton added.

Clopton also thanked the veterans in attendance. “Many of you have answered the call and served your country well. We remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach our children the value of freedom.”

Those in attendance also heard a song, “It Has Always Been the Soldier,” sung by Calvary Baptist Church Pastor Casey Short. The song gave credit to soldiers for the freedoms of the press, speech and assembly.

Logistics Spec. Third Class Joy Edwards, of the United States Navy, read the poem “A Soldier’s Night Before Christmas.” The poem, told from Santa’s point of view, tells of sacrifice and deprivation on the part of a soldier so sharp it makes the jolly old elf burst into tears and weep uncontrollably

Following this, wreaths were laid for each branch of the Armed Forces, including the Coast Guard, as well as one for American POW/MIAs. Pearl Harbor survivor Dallas Jones laid the wreath for the U.S. Navy and his fellow Pearl Harbor survivor Bill Thorpe laid the wreath for the POW/MIAs. 

Following one minute of silence, “Taps” played and the ceremony ended. It was the first time Roanoke Rapids participated in this national ceremony, but if the turnout and the solemnity with which it was undertaken Saturday are any indication, this will not be the last of these in this city.