Gulfport community honors fallen heroes during Memorial Day Ceremony

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV)- A Memorial Day ceremony was held in Gulfport to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice serving our country.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2539 joined the City of Gulfport to host a Memorial Day ceremony honoring our nation’s deceased military veterans.

Gulfport Mayor Hugh Keating said, “Well, this is always a very special, solemn, sacred, and wonderful day in so many ways. It’s a day where we remember those who were lost and we reflect on what those sacrifices mean to us. Also, how we are able to enjoy our freedom, as a result of those sacrifices. It just gives us an opportunity to think about what they did for us and how we can carry it forward with gratitude and unity.”

The ceremony included prayers, the posting of colors, the pledge of allegiance, the tolling of the bell, a bagpipe tribute, and a 21-gun salute. VFW 2539 Post Commander Charles Purchner Jr. said, “We always like to have increased participation, some years we get great participation, and other years, we don’t. We understand the weather is a factor, but it’s very important that families, especially mothers, fathers, bring their children and let them see what we do here to honor our veterans.”

Those in attendance paid their respects to honor the bravery, service, and devotion of the men and women who gave their lives to protect our freedom.