MINT HILL, NC – On May 25, the team from Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center honored those lost in service to our country with an event at the Medical Center.

The event began with a welcome from Mint Hill Medical Center Chief Nursing Officer Beth Mosher and an invocation from Mint Hill Medical Center Chaplain Mark Rumsey.  For the second year in a row, Marine Corp League Detachment #750 completed the Presentation of Colors, and Wes Watts (Mint Hill Medical Center) performed the National Anthem.

For civilians who have not been part of our nation’s Armed Services, Memorial Day and Veterans Day may seem similar, but they are distinct holidays with different purposes.  While both honor the sacrifices of those who have fought to preserve the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans, Memorial Day remembers those who gave their lives in service to our country while Veterans Day honors all who served in the US Armed Forces.

Two distinguished guests drove this point home with speeches on the meaning of Memorial Day: Michael Coleman, SFC E-7, United States Army; and Joshua Saunders, E-5 US Marine Corps, E-6 National Guard.  American Legion Post 555 Commander and Retired Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Jenkins, USAF, delivered the keynote speech.  

Following these meaningful speeches, Pastor Jeff Andler (Arlington Baptist Church) performed a patriotic song, and Ed Berti (Adjutant, Mint Hill American Legion Post 555) conducted the Placing of the Wreath.  Marine Corp Detachment #750 performed “Taps.”  The event concluded with a benediction from Reverend Mark Weekly (Lead Pastor, Arlington Baptist Church).

Mint Hill Medical Center President Joy Greear is proud to present an event annually that both involves and honors our nation’s veterans, especially those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to defend the freedoms we as Americans enjoy and hold dear.