ROWLESBURG — Rowlesburg will host the Third U.S. Military & Veterans Commemoration Day on June 30 to recognize and honor soldiers and veterans of all U.S. wars and conflicts.
The West Virginia Mobile Vietnam Wall with the addition of the Modern Wall will be set up at the Rowlesburg Community Park, where the 1 p.m. wreath-laying ceremony will take place. The West Virginia Patriot Guard Riders and the Preston County Honor Guard will also be in attendance. (The riders’ appearance is subject to cancellation if they are needed at a funeral.)
The wall includes the names of West Virginians who were killed in action, held as prisoners of war or are still missing in action. More than 732 names are on the wall.
The Modern Wall, covering 1975-2017, includes fallen West Virginia soldiers from other wars.
The wreath-laying ceremony will include presenting of the colors, a 21-gun salute and playing of Taps by the Preston County Honor Guard.
The topic for this year is “The History of the West Virginia National Guard.” A display and educational program on the Guard can be visited next to the wall 10 a.m.-5 p.m., courtesy of the West Virginia National Guard.
The World War II and other museums will be open at the Szilagyi Center.
As always, the event will conclude with Bobby Menear’s “Maestros of Swing” USO dance from 8 p.m.-midnight at the Szilagyi Center. Tickets are $30 a person. Hors d’oeuvres, soda, beer and wine are included. For reservations call 304-329-1240 or 304-454-9506.
After last year’s absence — due to a scheduling conflict — the Maestro himself will lead the band again.
Major sponsors for the event are Greer Industries Inc., and Clear Mountain Bank.
