CLEVELAND — About 300 people gathered in Cleveland Monday for a Memorial Day observance with a special bonus — dedication of the White County Veterans Memorial.
American Legion Post 16 and Northeast Georgia Veterans Society worked in conjunction with the White Board of Commissioners to honor White County citizens who gave their lives for America's freedom.
The newly-dedicated White County Veterans Memorial stands alongside the recently-relocated service monuments honoring the different branches of military.
White County Commissioner Terry Goodger opened the observance by recognizing those who organized the effort to have the original service monuments placed in front of the White County Courthouse.
In addition to the Presentation of Colors, Pledge of Allegiance and national anthem, the memorial was dedicated by Ron Webb, president of the Northeast Georgia Veterans Society.
The names of the 34 White County war causalities from World War I and II, Korea, Vietnam and Iraq wars were read and as each was recognized Paul Kozoroz rang the honor bell.
The program also included the reading of the names of White County veterans who have died during the past year and ringing of the bell by Tom Chastain, as well as the firing of a 21-gun salute.
Ending the ceremony was playing of taps by White County Honor Guard member Eddie Allen.
