A mixture of patriotic pride and solemness combined for a Memorial Day remembrance at the Bradley County Veteran’s Museum on Monday.
The event was moved there from the Bradley County Courthouse grounds due to the bell tower construction.
Bradley County Veterans Inc., Chairman Clifford Wayne Clayton gave the welcome and observed a moment of silence.
Floyd Brown led the prayer. Cathy Richardson Worley sang the National Anthem. The audience recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Worley also sang “God Bless America.”
Brown introduced the speaker, Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Roger McClellan. McClellan is married to the former Patricia Childress of New Edinburg. He began his military career as a private in 3/153rd Infantry Battalion, 39th Infantry Brigade in 1977. He received his commission from the Arkansas Army National Guard Officer Candidate School in March 1981.
He commanded the 2/153rd Infantry Battalion, 39th Infantry Brigade (Separate), headquartered at Searcy. He served as S-5, civil affairs officer, for the 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II. Upon his return to the U.S., he served as deputy commander, 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, headquartered in Little Rock. On Jan. 1, 2008, McClellan assumed the duties of commander, Land Component Command, Arkansas Army National Guard in North Little Rock. He later retired from military service and became an accountant with International Paper Co. in Memphis.
“It’s not about me. It’s about them. I am proud of my career,” McClellan said. “I thank God for saving grace and giving me the opportunity to serve.”
He noted that he grew up in New Edinburg and later lived in Warren for five years. He added that 2nd Lt. Tommy Richardson of Warren assisted him in his military career.
He said his father joined the U.S. Navy in World War II after Pearl Harbor. His son joined the Marines after McClellan returned from Iraq. McClellan himself spent 36 years in the military.
“Those who gave all is why we’re here today,” he said. He said Memorial Day honors 1.3 million military personnel who gave their lives for our freedom. He added that 88 Bradley County veterans who died in combat are listed on the courthouse memorial.
During his one-year deployment in Iraq, he said his unit lost 33 soldiers, with 16 of those from Arkansas.
“It’s a sacrifice for your service but it’s also a sacrifice for those you love,” he said.
Worley led a patriotic medley and then “Taps” was played to end the service.
Top Photo: Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Roger McClellan Speaking at the Event
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