Over 300 guests joined the Pelion Ruritan Club members at their annual Memorial Day service.

Each year, a large crowd gathers at the Veterans Memorial in Pelion to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we often take for granted.

The rain stopped for this year’s service and held off until it ended.

This year Otto Hage started the ceremony with the “Ringing of the Hour.” The Pelion JROTC presented the colors and CMSgt Retired Tim Treaster led the attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance. The Pelion Chorus, under the direction of Dr. David Stephenson, sang the National Anthem.

The SC Patriot Guard Riders were introduced. These amazing people give of their time freely to pay respect to our fallen heroes. They stood in line around the monument, flags in hand.

CMSgt Retired Tim Treaster recognized veterans of all services as the Pelion High School Band played medley of military anthems.

Josh Quattlebaum of Soldiers of Faith sang “God Bless the USA,” a rendition that would make even composer Lee Greenwood stand at attention. Soldiers of Faith is a local Southern Gospel group.

Mayor Frank Shumpert introduced dignitaries attending.

This year’s keynote speaker was LTC Travis Mills, Commander, 2-60th Infantry.

Remarks were given by Representative Kit Spires. Patriotic music was presented by the Soldiers of Faith. Mr. Ed Wilkes played Amazing Grace on the bagpipes as the old faded flag was removed and a new one replaced.

1SG Tom Peel, Army Retired, was assisted by the Pelion High JROTC as the old flag was removed, the new one affixed to the clasp and then slowly raised to the top of the pole before lowering halfway back down.

As a final show of respect, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Honor Guard gave a 21-Gun Salute and Mr. Otto Hage played Taps while the wreath was presented.

Over the next 12 months, CMSgt Retired Tim Treaster will maintain the flag by making sure all flag etiquette is followed. As a member of the Ruritan he takes this responsibility seriously and the Ruritan is very thankful for him.

The Pelion Ruritan thanks the community for its support of this service. We also thank Larry Sossomon who laser engraves the new pavers, and Jesse Jeffcoat who installs new pavers. There are now a total of 320 names within the monument.