Goldsboro, NC – (May 20) – As Memorial Day approaches, the Wayne County Veterans & Patriots Coalition Inc. invites the community to participate in a series of meaningful tributes designed to honor the men and women of Wayne County who gave their lives in service to the United States.
Under the coalition’s guiding mission “To Honor Those That Have Borne the Battle,” the 2025 Memorial Day weekend events will bring together veterans, active-duty personnel, families, and citizens in solemn remembrance and united patriotism.
Saturday, May 24 – “Flags In” and Memorial Tribute
The weekend of remembrance begins on Saturday, May 24, with a morning of community fellowship and patriotic service.
- 8:00 a.m. – A light breakfast of biscuits, doughnuts, and coffee will be served at American Legion Wayne Post 11, located at 2973 US Highway 117 South. Veterans, volunteers, and supporters are welcome to gather in camaraderie before the day’s events begin.
- 9:00 a.m. – A Memorial Tribute to the Fallen will be held, featuring remarks from Chief Master Sergeant Charlie Lesbier, Senior Enlisted Advisor of the 916th Force Support Squadron at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. CMSgt Lesbier will reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served and laid down their lives for the nation.
Following the tribute, volunteers will receive flag assignments and report to designated cemeteries to honor fallen veterans by placing American flags at their graves. Team leaders will distribute flags at the cemeteries, which include:
- Wayne Memorial Park
- Wayne Memorial Park West
- Elmwood Cemetery
- Willowdale Cemetery
- Evergreen Cemetery
Community members who wish to volunteer but have not yet signed up will be given the opportunity to join a team on Saturday morning. Organizers encourage newcomers to raise their hands during the briefing to be assigned to a cemetery group.
Monday, May 26 – Memorial Day Ceremonies
The official Memorial Day observance will take place on Monday, May 26, with the community gathering to mark the National Moment of Silence and honor Wayne County’s fallen service members.
- 2:30 p.m. – A Moment of Silence Observance will be held at the Wayne County Veterans Memorial, located at 239 East Walnut Street in downtown Goldsboro, at the intersection of E. Walnut and N. William streets.
- A Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Doughboy statue in front of the Wayne County Courthouse will immediately follow. This solemn act symbolizes the community’s enduring gratitude and respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
An Invitation to Remember Together
The Wayne County Veterans & Patriots Coalition encourages everyone — from long-time residents to newcomers — to take part in these events and help ensure the memory of local heroes endures for generations to come.
For additional information, questions, or to get involved, community members are encouraged to contact Larry Edmonds at [email protected] or call 984-349-4471.
