CELINA-The American Legion Post 18 continued their efforts to honor local heroes with their annual “formation of honor” here over the Memorial Day holiday to the delight of many onlookers.

This was the 14th consecutive year Post 18 placed crosses bearing the names, branches of service, and conflicts served of deceased Clay County veterans in formation at the historic Clay County Courthouse.

Gold stars also designate local veterans killed in action, while American Legion stickers recognize late local Post 18 members.

The crosses are purposely displayed in random order each year to encourage visitors to view and remember each an every veteran as they search for those featuring the names of their fallen family members, friends, and loved ones.

The origin of the effort is explained by a sign accompanying the display, which reads:

“In the fall of 2009, Clay County American Legion Post 18 requested names and locations of veterans buried in the county so a small American Flag could be placed on the grave for Veterans Day.

“With modest community response and many secluded cemeteries, the Post felt this was not the best recognition due those who served out country, since most of those flags would go unnoticed by the general public.

“Post 18 members then decided to ask the Clay County Genealogical Committee for permission to use their books, which documented more than 280 Clay County cemeteries.

“Clay County, Tennessee Cemeteries, Volumes I and II, listed over 750 grave sites with marked military service.  Post 18 took these veterans’ names and brought them together at the county seat for the tribute you see. Additional veterans’ names and their burial sites have been submitted by friends and family.

“Our goal is to eventually have the names of all veterans buried in our county added to this formation.  American Legion Post 18 wishes to thank all those who continue to make this display possible.”

Over 1,200 names were displayed on over 600 crosses on the square throughout the holiday weekend, honoring Clay County veterans who meet one of the following criteria:

• buried in Clay County,

• died in combat and was buried in a foreign country,

• buried in any state or national veterans cemetery;

• whose remains have been cremated, or

• is a veteran belonging to Post 18.

Memorial Day was Monday, May 27.  The official federal holiday is set aside to remember those who died in active military service, and it is always observed annually on the last Monday in May.

For more information, to donate to support the annual event, or to add a deceased veteran to the “formation of honor” list, please contact any member of Post 18.  Also visit the Post 18 American Legion, Celina, Tennessee Facebook page.