Locals will have the opportunity this Memorial Day to honor those from Lincoln County who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom of the citizens of the United States of America – their lives.

In front of the Lincoln County/Brookhaven Government Complex Monday, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion will host a ceremony at 10 a.m. to honor those who have served our country.

Billy Hughes, commander of Brookhaven’s VFW Post 2618, said this year’s ceremony will feature U.S. Rep. Gregg Harper as a guest speaker.

Hughes said he hopes having Harper at the ceremony will encourage more people to come, but attendance has not been a problem over the past few years. He estimated over 100 people attended the ceremony last year.

“That’s what we want, a lot of people,” Hughes said.

The ceremony will also include an honor guard to post the colors and a reading of the names of all 88 fallen men and women from Lincoln County from World War I to the Vietnam War.

Hughes said he believes the ceremony is an important way to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom.

“It just shows respect for the fallen men and women,” he said. “More than anything, we still respect the people who have fallen for this country.”

Hughes said the ceremony is not just to honor those who died for their country though.

“I would like see all the people connected with the military now and the veterans,” he said. “We welcome them, and we want them there, too.”

For those worried about the heat, Hughes said he did not think that would be a problem because at that time of the morning the building casts a shadow over the area. He said there will also be chairs set up and lemonade provided.

While people enjoy their day off on Monday, Hughes wants to remind everyone what the day is about.

“Everybody thinks it’s just another holiday, and it is, but I think everyone should take a little time out of their day to show respect,” Hughes said.