On Monday, Memorial Day, the Republican Executive Committee of Washington Parish will host its annual Memorial Day ceremony at Poole’s Bluff.

Committee chairman Don Crist said this is a chance for the group to remember those who died in combat.

“Obviously we’re distinguishing Memorial Day from Veterans’ Day in that we’re honoring the deceased who have fought in wars,” he said.

The ceremony will include a wreath laying, playing of Taps and a 21-gun salute.

“We will have the American Legion Post 24 to do a 21-gun salute,” he said. “Their honor guard is going to come out and they’ll do the salute and Taps.”

However, the ceremony is also an occasion to learn some history from the folks who lived it.

“What we feel is unique is, we try to have each of the veterans at the function introduce themselves and tell what they went through in their wars,” Crist said. “And it’s not only men, but women. We have a lady who was a nurse in the service and she’ll be able to talk.”

Hulon Wittington, whom Crist said is the only local recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, will be on hand, too.

In total, Crist said the program should last 30 to 45 minutes.

“Some of the veterans might talk a little bit more, but I really don’t expect it to go over an hour at all,” he said.

Crist said the Republican Executive Committee enjoys organizing the event.

“This is the fourth year were doing it and it grows every year and we’re glad to do it,” said Crist.

The ceremony will occur at 12:30 p.m. at Poole’s Bluff Nature Park off Highway 21.

The Republican Executive Committee reminds anyone who goes to bring a lawn chair.