DUANE SHERRILLEditor

Scores of patriotic Tullahomans gathered together at Caboose Park Friday morning to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend their country.

“I’m an old soldier who served overseas and returned home without a scratch,” keynote speaker Maj. Gen. (ret.) Robert A. Harris told the scores on hand at the annual Memorial observance held at Caboose Park in downtown Tullahoma. “Sometimes I feel guilty about it. I think about those who have died for our freedom. What have I done to earn this? What can I do to be a good man?”

Harris pointed out the words “earn this” were uttered in “Saving Private Ryan” in the dying words of Tom Hanks’ character, urging Private Ryan to earn the sacrifice the other soldiers had made.

“Many a good boy and girl have died to give us the right to be here today, to enjoy this beautiful weather, smell the freshly mowed grass and enjoy fellowship with friends,” he continued.

Harris pointed out over 100 Tennesseans have given their lives for their country since 9/11.

“By honoring our nation’s war dead, we preserve their memory of their service and sacrifice,” he said. “Honor and remember the war dead and tell their stories.”

Tullahoma Mayor Lynn Sebourn began the observance with the official welcome before the presentation of the colors and Pledge of Allegiance and National Anthem by CMDR Albert Haas and American Legion Post 43. The invocation was prayed by Kris Roberts of First Methodist Church. Lisa and Tom Maurer then did a patriotic medley of songs on the keyboard and saxophone before keynote speaker Robert A. Harris was introduced by Sandy Sebring of the Shady Grove Garden Club.

The annual presentation of Memorial Scholarships was issued by Sebring as three students from local high schools were praised for their work. The students included Kaitlyn Brown of Tullahoma, Addison Whitaker of Moore County and Rylee Clark of Coffee County High. The scholarships are made possible by the sales of pavers on the veterans walk. This year there were 27 new pavers dedicated. The names of those immortalized in stone on the pavers were read aloud by Captain Camden Dammeyer of AEDC.

The event was concluded by the player of “Taps” by Liz French of Tullahoma High School.