The above volunteers worked Sat., May 28, placing flags on the graves of military veterans in honor of Memorial Day at Hartselle City Cemetery. | Randy Garrison

Randy Garrison

Hartselle Enquirer

As has been the tradition for over 25 years, American flags were placed on the graves of veterans buried at Hartselle City Cemetery. According to Frank Parker, Retired Col., Alabama National Guard, this has taken place the Saturday before Memorial Day for many years.

In the beginning, this was an American Legion project, and placing the flags on the graves of veterans took place over many of the cemeteries in Morgan County. However, due to the death of many of those heavily involved in the American Legion, this has dwindled over time.

Presently only the graves at the city cemetery are adorned with flags for Memorial Day. Sherry Echols, who also helps with the event along with Parker, said several folks come out and help with the event each year. “During one of my classes several years ago the cemetery was mapped according to the locations of the graves of local veterans. This was a class assignment.” Echols said.

There was a great turnout this year, with Echols saying she placed an invitation on Facebook, inviting those who she thought might like to help with this project.

Those participating in placing the flags in honor of the veterans included: Bob Jacques, Ryan Stover, Fred Smith, Sam Turner, Dave Rausch, Barry Goree, Frank Parker, Jeff McCutcheon, Dana McCutcheon, Molly Buffington, Karla Buffington, LeeAnne Pettey, Mike Alexander, Virginia Alexander, Chris Covington, Randy Garrison, Gerald Cochrane, Beverly Morris Cochrane, Pam Berry and Sherry Echols.