Tyler’s Memorial Day Ceremony

TYLER — Tyler and Smith County remember fallen military members, and all veterans. A major annual Memorial Day service is set for Monday morning at 11:00 at Tyler Memorial Park on Highway 64 West. Guest speakers are Smith County Sheriff Larry Smith and Lt. Commander Matt Schaefer of the U.S. Navy Reserve, also the Tyler area’s state representative. Other touches include a fallen warrior ceremony procession, a rifle salute, and patriotic music. Organizers encourage the public to join in the ceremony.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it started following the Civil War as a way to honor the Union and Confederate soldiers killed in the war. By the 20th century, it had been extended to honor all Americans who died while in military service. It became a federal holiday in 1971.