Goldsboro, N.C. — The Wayne County Veterans and Patriots Coalition extended heartfelt thanks to the many donors and volunteers who helped make this year’s Memorial Day weekend ceremonies a tremendous success.

On Saturday, coalition members and volunteers gathered for the annual “Flags In” event, beginning the day with a light breakfast provided by local businesses. Volunteers from American Legion Wayne Post 11, the Boy Scouts of the Tuscarora Council, The Elk’s Lodge, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and numerous local patriots joined forces to place more than 4,000 American flags on the gravesites of fallen servicemembers.

A variety of breakfast items—biscuits, donuts, coffee, and beverages—were generously donated by several area businesses, including Hardee’s on 11th Street, McDonald’s and Burger King in Mar Mac, Krispy Kreme on Ash Street, Dunkin’ Donuts on Ash Street, and Food Lion on Ash Street.

Chief Master Sergeant Charlie Lesbier of the 916th Air Refueling Wing Force Support Squadron delivered the keynote address for the event. The solemn ceremony concluded with a performance of “Taps” by Mr. Tom Anderson.

On Memorial Day, the Moment of Silence ceremony took place at the Wayne County Veterans Memorial in downtown Goldsboro. A wreath was laid by Gold Star Parents Dave and Beth Friedrich, whose son, Sgt. David Friedrich, was killed in action in Iraq on September 20, 2003.

The ceremony drew the attendance of several local leaders, including Goldsboro Mayor Charles Gaylor, Goldsboro Fire Chief Ron Stempien, Wayne County Sheriff Larry Pierce, and Medal of Honor and Purple Heart recipient Colonel Walter J. Marm.

“Taps” was once again performed by Mr. Tom Anderson, and bagpipe music was provided by Sgt. Eric Goins of the Goldsboro Police Department, adding a reverent tone to the moving tribute.

The Wayne County Veterans and Patriots Coalition expressed deep appreciation for the community’s support, which made the weekend’s remembrance ceremonies a fitting tribute to the county’s fallen heroes.