If you attended the Memorial Day Community Celebration in Harrisonburg, VA on May 29, you know that it was the place to be for a great celebration. It was a perfect temperature with a breeze to cool the crowd. With over 6,000 people in attendance and around 300 cars at the cruise-in, we observed Memorial Day in style. God truly showed up at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds.
The crowd clapped and danced to the musical talents of Jessie Pugh, Polen Band, Audra McLaughlin, John Schmid, and The Little Roy and Lizzy Show. Vertical Kids Ministry, the face painters and balloon animal makers, and the inflatables were all big hits with the children. To top off the event, there was delicious food from Strite’s Donuts, Deere Horn Ice Cream, Nacho Bizness, and local churches.
The highlight of the event was when we were able to honor 165 veterans, military personnel, and first responders in a special ceremony where they were presented with medals and thanked for their service. The heart of Memorial Day shone through when a moment of silence was observed for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country, following which Audra McLaughlin sang a beautiful National Anthem that moved many present to tears. We prayed over all who were present and those who lost their lives in service. After this beautiful commemoration, Steve shared a gospel message with the crowd and 132 people made decisions for Christ. These moments really represented what Victory Weekend and Memorial Day are all about.
We thank all who attended, sponsored, prayed, and otherwise participated in this iconic event. We hope that you will make our Memorial Day Community Celebrations part of your annual holiday traditions. Pray that next year will be even better!