The community of Portales is invited to gather at the Joe Blair Pavilion in the Portales Cemetery on Monday, May 25th. at 10:30 am, for the annual Memorial Day ceremony honoring the men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States.
The program will begin with a welcome from Randy Dunson, Commander of American Legion Post 31, who will open the ceremony and set the tone for a morning of remembrance and gratitude. Following the welcome, Jake Orvin, Chaplain of Post 31, will offer the invocation.
The Posting of the Colors will be conducted with full ceremony, immediately followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Portales Mayor Mike Davidson.
A special Memorial Day address will be delivered by Portales City Manager Scott Mitten, who will speak on the meaning of the day and the importance of honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The ceremony will also include the Laying of the Wreath, with participation by Judy Hall, daughter of Joe Blair, the World War II veteran for whom the pavilion is named. This tribute will honor all fallen service members and recognize the families who carry their legacy forward.
Miss Eliza Orvin will lead the Gold Star Mother Tribute, a solemn moment dedicated to the mothers who have lost a son or daughter in military service.
To close the ceremony, Rick Kenyon, Minister of 3rd and Kilgore Church of Christ, will offer the Benediction, followed by the traditional and reverent sounding of Taps.
The public is warmly encouraged to attend this meaningful community event and join in honoring the heroes who gave their lives for our nation.
