The local American Legion Post #122 held its annual Memorial Day gathering Monday morning at the county complex.

In recognition of our fallen military heroes, the event featured Victoria Vincent performing the national anthem, music by State Rep. Terri Lynn Weaver. Susan Hinton also read a poem written by the late Ben Herman about a World War II veteran.

Don Rigsby, who was deployed in Southeast Asia in 1968 and 1969, and retired from the Air Force in July 1998 after serving for more than 31 years, was the keynote speaker. Members of Boy Scout Pack #347 presented the Colors and led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance. American Legion #122 Women's Auxiliary President Judy Redman honored Gold Star Mothers and spouses.

A wreath was placed at the site of the Veterans Memorial Monument on the south side of the courthouse after the event.