Memorial Day Observance in Plano
Mike Newman

The grandiose sound of bagpipes followed by a 21-gun salute resounded at the Plano Municipal Center last May as part of the Memorial Day Observance. The community event included a children's march, a formal wreath-laying ceremony, and a special presentation honoring Air Force veteran Chet Bogle, who was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action. View a Slideshow

Seated on stage were representatives from each of the major conflicts including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and the War on Terrorism. An empty seat was marked in recognition of POWs and MIAs.

Rep. Sam Johnson and Rep. Ralph Hall, who both served in the Armed Forces, spoke to an attentive audience. The keynote address was given by Capt. Scott O'Grady, who was shot down over Bosnia in 1995 and survived enemy territory for six days eating leaves, grass and ants. O'Grady writes about his experience evading capture in his books Return with Honor and Basher Five-Two.

Another highlight of the morning ceremony was recitations by the winners of the oral biography competition, including Tushar Madam from Renner Middle School. Scholarships were also presented to the students by the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.