Last year, the City of Bridgeport hosted a Memorial Day observance at Bridgeport Cemetery. Featuring a short ceremony, refreshments and community fellowship, the event served to not only pay tribute to those who had fought for our freedom, but also all individuals who had been laid 

to rest at the community cemetery. 

 

Featuring a 21-gun salute by the Harrison County Honor Guard, the event went well. Community members came out, remembering those who have passed on and stopping to reflect on memories and sacrifice, said Tricia Bombardiere, office administrator at Bridgeport Cemetery.

 

The city now plans the second annual event; one bigger than the inaugural observance. It all takes place the afternoon of Monday, May 28. 

 

A program has been put together, involving area individuals, including several youth. 

 

Tyler Reed of Boy Scout Troop 549 will play taps and Emma Davisson, a Bridgeport Middle School student, will sing "Amazing Grace."

 

Members of Bridgeport Boy Scout Troop 40 hold flags and distribute small flags at the gate. Serving as emcee is Brad Ford. 

 

There will be another added feature.

 

"This year, we will present the folding of the flag with the meaning to each of the 13 folds," Bombardiere said.

 

Zachary and Matthew Lunsford do the honors of folding the flag as Ford explains the meaning behind each fold. 

 

Complimentary refreshments, including hotdogs, cake and patriotic treats, will be served at 12:30 p.m. with the ceremony to follow at 1 p.m.

 

Bombardiere said the city received positive feedback after last year's debut event and is pleased to offer the event again. 

 

"Families were very appreciative of our ceremony and they went as far as to say it was a very thoughtful gesture that we recognize the loved ones of community families at our cemetery," she said. "They said they hoped we would continue it each year." 

 

Memorial Day is about gathering with family and friends to honor and remember our veterans and loved ones who have passed on, Bombardiere said. 

 

"This event will allow us to bring together families, patrons and community at Bridgeport Cemetery," she said. "Bring your family and celebrate with us.”