MCL Detachment 1474 Chaplain Marnie Edwards recites the 13-fold flag ceremony script while Will Miller, James Henson and Jim McDade complete the first fold.

Sunday, November 2, was recognition time for veterans of all branches of the United States military at the courthouse parking lot in Winfield.

James E. Marshall American Legion Post 187 Winfield and William B. Fulks Marine Corps League Detachment 1474 Hurricane joined with the Winfield High School band to make the day memorable for the veterans and their families in attendance.

Post 187 Historian Delbert Brannon served as director of ceremonies. MCL Detachment1474 posted colors and Post 187 Chaplain Kenny Bright delivered the introductory prayer. Two members of the Winfield High School Band sang the National Anthem. On behalf of the Putnam County Commission, Commissioner Doug Pierson thanked all veterans for their service and sacrifice.

Veterans of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force stepped forward as the WHS Band played the anthem of each military branch. The band also played the anthems for the Coast Guard and the Space Force but no Coast Guard or Space Force veterans were present.

E-9 Chief Master Sergeant David J. Boyles, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) spoke on the training and experiences which are common to all who have served in the United States Military. Boyles also made note of the fact that the financial contribution of $5.12 billion by West Virginia’s 117,000 veterans to the state’s economy is almost as large as the state government’s annual budget. Boyles stated that many veterans have problems in coping with life’s problems and urged all present to serve as agents of encouragement.