HIGHLANDS – Sterling – White Funeral Home and Cemetery hosted the Annual Memorial Day Service on Memorial Day, a celebration of all things American and remembrance of those that served their country in the military.
Throughout the cemetery were flags as well as equipment from modern conflicts from the National United States Armed Forces Museum of Texas.
The event began with placing a Memorial Wreath at the cemetery’s Wall of Honor by the Crosby JROTC under the direction of Sgt. Tim Meadows.
A color guard of Boy Scout Troop #107 under the direction of Michael Dean raised “Old Glory.”
The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by school children from Highlands and Crosby.
Jeff Moore, Managing Partner of Sterling White Funeral Home and Cemetery directed ceremonies welcoming all attendees.
Pastor Jerry Hovator of The Little Country Church performed his 17th annual Opening Prayer. Later, he would deliver a message about those that served their country and the incredible impact on the well-being of the rest of the world. He also closed with prayer at the conclusion.
The new JROTC Senior Army Instructor at Crosby ISD, LTC Toimu Reeves U.S. Army, delivered an inspiring oration offering a litany of the greatness of America from an adoptive perspective. The Cypress resident called to mind the Medal of Honor awardee contribution of Crosby’s own David H. McNerney in his speech.
Reeves told this reporter that he applied for the post of Crosby High School exclusively after learning of the program begun here. He also commented on his former service that he has a million miles on United Airlines from being posted in Saudi Arabia and the Pentagon in the last year and flying home frequently.
Don Guillory of American Legion Post 658, read the roll call of those service men and women buried in the cemetery with assistance from Dan Webb, 1st Vice Commander American Legion Post 658.
Dana Read played “Taps” on bugle as the ceremony inclined to remember the horrors of war. Richard Kean performed “Amazing Grace” on bagpipes to conclude the dedication.
Sampson Masonic Lodge members placed evergreen sprigs on a military vehicle brought in for the ceremony from National United States Armed Forces Museum of Texas.
Following the hour long ceremonies, Sterling White offered sausage on a stick as informal dining and conversation starter.
Managing Partner Jeff Moore would encapsulate, “I would like to thank all of you for attending our Memorial Day Service. It is a great honor to serve you and your loved ones. I would also like to thank my staff for all of their hard work and dedication. I would like to say Thank You to all the participants who have contributed to this years’ service. I would also like to add a special thank you boy scout troop #107 for placing flags on the grave spaces of military veterans throughout our cemetery. ”