Yesterday afternoon, Bob and I took a drive through our National Military Cemetery where volunteers and park staff placed 18,000 flags on military graves as part of the park's Memorial Day activities. We try to make this an every year event to see. The park has planned a lot of activities to kick off Memorial Day with hosting re-enactments and cannon firings near the Visitor Center. Volunteers and employees will be dressed in military uniforms from time periods from the Revolutionary War to present day. A parade this morning and a memorial services held in the Vicksburg Auditorium afterwards. Later, a wreath-laying ceremony at the national cemetery. Veterans will place a wreath on the grave of an unknown soldier, while honoring the memory of all those buried in the cemetery. Tim Kavanaugh, supervisory park ranger for interpretation and visitor service, said, "This is a famous city because of the Civil War and the South's persistent defense. We have a right to be proud of that heritage here and if it weren't for the Civil War and Vicksburg's role, we probably would not be celebrating this national holiday.
Plaque at the base of this historic lookout structure. Click on picture to read.
Leaving the Vicksburg National Military Cemetery.
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