Second annual Veterans' Memorial Walk completed

The second annual Veteran's Memorial Walk was Monday, May 25, as three Monette residents completed the 13-mile journey along Highway 18, from west of Lake City to Monette.

Robert Chambers, Rhonda Thompson and Dickie Pace walked in honor of all veterans. (Photo provided/Nan Snider)

Veterans Robert Chambers and Dickie Pace walked to honor those men and women who have died in service to their country as well as those currently in service. Rhonda Henry Thompson walked in honor of her father.

The three walkers began their journey at the Refuge General Baptist Church at 6:30 a.m. They carried American and Vietnam flags through Lake City and Black Oak before arriving at their destination at the American Legion building in Monette. Many well wishers greeted them along the way. Special escorts were provided by Lake City and Monette Fire Departments.

"We walked to show our gratitude and appreciation for all our veterans and what they have done for us," Chambers said. "There were 17 boys in our Monette High School graduating class of 1967 that went into service. We were blessed to all make it home again."

"As basic as walking is, it is something special for a military person to be able to walk back on their home soil again after having left for service," Pace said. "We wanted to walk in remembrance of all of them today."

"I have always been very proud of my father, Burnis Lavon Henry, and walked today in honor of him," Thompson said. "I think it important that we never forget what all our veterans have done for our freedom."