On a recent Saturday morning in Centralia, local veterans and community members gathered at the Centralia City Cemetery to honor and remember those who served and never returned. The ceremony, held in observance of MIA/KIA Day, began with the solemn playing of the Star Spangled Banner, setting a respectful tone for the event. Attendees included members of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Patriot Guard Riders, all united in their commitment to ensuring that the sacrifices of missing and fallen service members are never forgotten.
During the ceremony, speakers reflected on the importance of remembering those who are still missing in action and those who were killed in action. Wreaths were laid, prayers were offered, and the names of local MIAs and KIAs were read aloud, each one a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom. The event concluded with a rifle salute and the playing of Taps, leaving those present with a renewed sense of gratitude and responsibility to honor the memory of these heroes.
Click to read the original Star-Spangled Banner article.