The Ceremony will feature several events, including a wreath-laying ceremony, the playing of Taps, and other special remembrances. The program will also include honors to our nation, including the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of both the National Anthem and “For Freedom.”
There will be special tributes to the 225 Fallen Heroes of Florence and Lauderdale County who are recognized, by name and war, on five memorial markers in the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the rear of the Veterans Memorial. The Fallen Heroes Memorial will be open for everyone to visit.
The theme is “Freedom is Not Free, Some Paid All.”(The number of attendees is not restricted; however, seating is limited. Standing room is available. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs.) In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at the Florence-Lauderdale Coliseum, located at 702 Veterans Drive in Florence. The ceremony may also be viewed online on the City of Florence Facebook page.
Family members of Fallen Heroes and members of Gold Star families are especially encouraged to attend the ceremony in memory of their loved ones. Veterans are also encouraged to attend in honor of their fellow service members. Veterans and Gold Star family members in attendance will be recognized collectively and thanked for their service.