RIPLEY – The City of Ripley held its annual Veterans Day memorial ceremony Nov. 11.

Services were held on a chilly, overcast morning on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse.

Several times, blustery winds knocked over flags that had been erected to commemorate the event.

“This cold weather’s not helping us any,” said Stanley Shaffer, Commander of American Legion Post 107 in Ripley.

Despite the cold, a crowd of dozens turned out to pay tribute.

Members of the Legion, as well as the Jackson County Marine Corps League and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6669 in Ravenswood were on hand for the event.

Women from the American Legion Auxiliary began services by reading the names of local soldiers who had died in conflicts ranging from World War I to Vietnam and tolling a bell for each name called.

Members of the auxiliary also furnished refreshments for the ceremony.

Chaplain Jackie Fannin provided the opening prayer, and County Clerk Jeff Waybright sang the national anthem.

“We’re here to honor not only our past veterans, but also those who put themselves in harm’s way today,” said Jackson County Magistrate Tom Reynolds, who served as Master of Ceremonies.

Reynolds led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, recognized those veterans who were in attendance, and introduced Lt. Col. Jim McHugh, the event’s guest speaker.

Lt. Col. Jim McHugh gives a speech while Jackson County Magistrate Tom Reynolds looks on during Veterans Day services on Nov. 11.

“Anyone who has ever traveled outside these shores knows that this is the greatest country on Earth,” said McHugh, who has served in the military for almost 15 years. “You have been instrumental in protecting our way of life. We thank you.”

McHugh said that the cold weather on the morning of the ceremony was nothing compared to the conditions faced by soldiers fighting on foreign soil who had to cope with rain, gun battles, and going for days without food or a warm fire.

He also praised military families for the sacrifices they made for their country.

“These people are heroes and patriots just like those who have served in uniform,” McHugh said. “They sacrificed so we can live in peace with basic fundamental rights.”

“We are a nation at war. Freedom clearly is not free. Time and time again, our country has proven that it is resilient beyond all expectations. Whatever the challenge, we stand up to it. God bless America and Jackson County.”

A veterans’ wreath was placed upon the Jackson County Veterans Memorial. Ceremonies closed with a prayer offered by Chaplain Paul Palmer, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of Taps.

story by Stephen Hill (shill@jccitizen.com)

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