SURFSIDE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - The Town of Surfside Beach marked Memorial Day with its annual golf cart parade and a wreath-laying ceremony on Monday.
Residents and visitors lined Ocean Boulevard to watch nearly 100 decorated golf carts that participated. golf bag cart bag
“My grandfathers - one was in the Army, one was in the Marines. Both saw combat in World War II. They did come home, but they came home with some shrapnel,” said Heather Hildebrand.
Heather and her husband Chad have made attending the golf cart parade an annual tradition.
“It allows you to stop for a minute and just pause and say thank you for the country that we live in. Sometimes we take for granted where we live,” said Chad Hildebrand.
There was candy for the kids and a salute for service members with each cart that passed by.
There was also an opportunity for the next generation to acknowledge the ultimate price paid by the men and women of our armed forces.
“It’s a day when we celebrate our veterans and appreciate the people who served our country and their sacrifice,” said Cole Kosco.
Cole’s mother, Nicole, added that she makes it a point to check in on family and friends who’ve served, from time to time.
“We make sure to reach out to family members and friends close to us that have served or talk about family members who might no longer be with us,” she said.
Later in the afternoon, some community members gathered at Surfside Beach Memorial Park for the annual wreath-laying ceremony.
The presentation of colors was handled by the City of Myrtle Beach Fire Department Honor Guard.
Larry Raymond, a U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran, gave a speech about service and reminded the crowd about what Memorial Day is all about.
“As a proud America, we should all remember that our freedom is not free. It is only possible because of the heroes some from our families and our neighbors that paid a high price,” said Raymond.
Surfside Beach Mayor Robert Krouse encouraged residents to continue to keep the appreciation going for service members during his speech.
“This nation has been particularly blessed by God, and for that reason we should always be mindful of our standards. We should celebrate it in a spirit of gratitude,” he said.
Stay with WMBF News for updates.
s2 golf carts Copyright 2024 WMBF. All rights reserved.