By By Steve Swogetinsky/The Meridian Star
May 28, 2001
Special services, such as today's Memorial Day ceremony in front of the Lauderdale County Courthouse, don't just happen.
Marvin Weir, commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #79 in Meridian, met with The Meridian Star's editorial board to discuss the time and effort that goes into presenting such an event.
A veteran of the Korean War, Weir said much of the work that goes into putting on patriotic events is done by veterans of World War II. He serves on the Veterans Committee that organizes Memorial Day and Veterans Day events.
The Memorial Day program starts at 10 a.m. A Boy Scout honor guard will lower the U.S. flag to half-staff. There will be the pledge and a prayer. The names of the war dead will be read out loud, as will the names of veterans who have died in the last year. There will be a wreath-laying ceremony.
Weir encourages merchants and businessmen in the area to support these activities as best they can.
Weir said that it is up to veterans to pass on these traditions and memories to younger Americans.
Born and raised in Lauderdale County, Weir served in the Marines during the 1950s. He returned home after his military service and worked at Roadway for many years. He is also a member of Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion and the Shriners.
Steve Swogetinsky is regional editor of The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3217, or e-mail him at sswogetinsky@themeridianstar.com.