As the first rays of sunshine break over the Gulf, the Port Bolivar Volunteer Fire Department invites the community to gather in solemn unity for a meaningful Memorial Day tribute. On Monday morning—bright and early—the fire station will be the site of a moving flag raising ceremony designed to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
This year’s event will follow the traditional Memorial Day flag protocol, and it promises to be especially memorable. At sunrise, a color guard made up of uniformed U.S. Marines will take their position with military precision and present the American Flag.
Local resident and longtime community volunteer Vicki Jo Simpton has been selected for the honor of raising the flag—an incredible recognition and moment of pride for the Port Bolivar community.
The flag will be raised briskly, then in a symbolic moment of remembrance, the flag will then be slowly lowered to half-staff as the names of fallen service members are read aloud. This solemn gesture serves as a visible sign of mourning and respect for those who gave their lives to defend our freedoms. The flag will remain at half-staff until noon.
[But there may be a special surprise in the skies. Organizers are working to secure a military jet flyover to coincide with the sunrise raising. While it’s not yet confirmed, hopes are high for this breathtaking tribute.]
At precisely 12:00 PM, the flag will be returned to full staff to signify that the nation’s living will continue the fight for liberty and justice on behalf of the fallen. It will remain at full staff until sunset.
All are welcome—and encouraged—to attend this heartfelt event. Bring your family, bring a friend, and arrive before sunrise to witness a tradition that is both somber and uplifting, reminding us of the true meaning behind Memorial Day.
This ceremony is a powerful way to pause, reflect, and honor the heroes who never came home. Let’s stand together, hand over heart, as the sun rises and the flag flies high over Port Bolivar.
