Remembering the Fallen at Museum of the American G.I.
COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – Memorial Day is a time to pause and reflect as a Nation and honor those who have died in military service for the United States.
On Sunday, the Museum of the American G.I. hosted a 21-gun salute to remember the fallen this Memorial Day weekend.
An armored group performed a 21-gun salute where three cannons were fired 21 times to commemorate U.S. Military Personnel who died while serving the country.
The three canons represent different wars; the French 75 mm field gun representing WWI, the 75 mm pack Howitzer representing WWII, and the 105 mm Howitzer representing the Vietnam War.
“Being able to operate these guns and feel that history, you almost get transported back to how they [veterans] were feeling operating those guns,” said 10-year volunteer Ryan McKee.
6-year volunteer, Hayden Eoff has been firing the canon for their “Remembering the Fallen” event for 3 years now.
“It means a lot to me especially those I knew personally to honor their sacrifice and remember why we have a day off,” said Eoff.
With his curiosity about history and having had both of his grandfathers serve the country, Hayden was inspired to volunteer at the Museum and join the U.S. Army.
“Following the footsteps of my grandfathers who served before me and set that example of service and just on my own part, I am grateful to live in what I believe is the greatest country on earth and I believe in trying to give back,” said Eoff.
The volunteers stress that Memorial Day is so much more than time spent with family and the BBQ you eat.
“It’s important I think for Americans to remember that this day is about those who served and did not get to make it back home,” said Eoff.
The Executive Director for the Museum of the American G.I., Leisha Mullins, told KBTX that the 21-gun salute is considered the highest honor a nation can bestow.
