Members of the rifle squad from American Legion Post 86 listened to a speech by Commander Mike Puckett. (David Boraks/CorneliusNews.net)
On Memorial Day 2015, The Town of Cornelius and American Legion Post 86 took time out to remember those who died fighting for our country, and in particular, the nation’s losses in Vietnam, which began 50 years ago. Post 86 commander Col. Mike Puckett (US Army Retired) led the ceremony behind Town Hall, next to the Cornelius Veterans Monument at Rotary Plaza.
Col. Mike Puckett, a Vietnam veteran, gave the keynote address on the theme “Viet Nam Remembered.” (David Boraks/CorneliusNews.net)
Speaking on the theme “Viet Nam Remembered,” Puckett read out the numbers of casualties from all of America’s conflicts.
Puckett himself was an infantry squad leader in Vietnam, and recounted the story of a colleague whom fellow soldiers nicknamed “Alabama,” who died when he was shot in the head in one battle.
“In many ways the experience of Vietnam defined my life, and the lives of those who served there,” he said.
A couple of hundred people assembled for the ceremony, including local high school JROTC members and color guards. The event included an MIA/POW empty chair ceremony and a 21-gun salute with the American Legion Post 86 Rifle Team.
The audience included residents, local officials and veterans. (David Boraks/CorneliusNews.net)
