With veterans of several wars and all military branches on hand, the stirring music of the 282nd Army Band out of Fort Jackson, S.C., flowered wreaths, proudly flying flags, heartfelt prayers and tears held just in check, the Blue Ridge Veterans Memorial next to the Galax Public Library was dedicated last Sunday afternoon.
The crowd was especially large given the overcast, wet weather.
Frank Plichta, Vietnam veteran and Commander of the American Legion Post #245 in Galax, led the ceremony, which lasted about half an hour.