On Monday, the Town of Wake Forest, together with local veterans' groups, will continue its tradition of monthly flag-raising ceremonies in Centennial Plaza at Town Hall. This month's event, set for 11 a.m., pays homage to the service and memory of Terry Shackelton, a veteran of the US Marine Corps. According to an announcement by the Town of Wake Forest, the ceremony will feature patriotic songs, touching remarks, and the laying of a memorial wreath.
Participating in the ceremony, the Wake Forest Fire Department Honor Guard will raise both the American flag and the Marine Corps flag. Entwined in patriotism, these flags will stand in Centennial Plaza for the entirety of August, a symbol of national service and personal sacrifice. After the ceremony, it was announced that the American flag will be ceremoniously handed over to the Shackelton family during the next flag-raising event on September 8.
In addition to the ceremonial gestures, the ceremony will be accentuated by a display of photographs and personal memorabilia, illuminating Shackelton's life and service. These items will not only grace Centennial Plaza but will also be exhibited in the Town Hall lobby until the end of August, inviting the community to share in the remembrance.
As reported by the Town of Wake Forest, the flag-raising ceremonies are a heartfelt initiative aimed at commemorating deceased veterans from the local community. With the monthly gatherings occurring from April through October, save for a shift in September due to Labor Day, these events serve to acknowledge the contribution and the cost borne by not just the individuals who served but their loved ones as well.
The Wake Forest Memorial Flag-Raising Committee is accepting nominations for deceased veterans to be honored at future events. To qualify, veterans must meet one of three criteria: they enlisted in active duty from Wake Forest, passed away in the town, or were members of a Wake Forest veterans' organization. These guidelines help ensure the community honors its local veterans.
