Program posted for ceremony Sept. 15 in Slater honoring Vietnam veterans

New details are available on a ceremony to honor Vietnam War veterans or surviving family members set for Saturday, Sept. 15, at 2 p.m. in Slater.

Veterans Park on Main Street is the venue for the ceremony, which is being coordinated by Charlie Guthrie, chaplain of Slater American Legion Post 78.

The service is a part of a statewide program approved by the Missouri legislture last year and overseen by the Missouri adjutant general's office.

Qualified veterans or designated family members will be recognized for their service with medallions.

The event's main speaker will be Brig. Gen. Larry Kay, assistant adjudant of the Missouri Army National Guard.

Additionally, remarks will be offered by Slater Mayor Steve Allegri, Circuit Court Judge Dennis Rolf, state Rep. Joe Aull and Pat Kerr of the Missouri Veterans Commission.

Others expected to participate in the ceremony include: Tony Gallagher, Buddy Meyer, Wellington J. Gorham Jr., Ron Monnig and Harry Lightfoot.

James Kay will play the bagpipes during the ceremony, Shyanne Sellers will sing the national anthem and Rev. Lowell Moore will offer the closing prayer.

The ceremony is open to the public and guests are invited to bring their own lawn chairs if they wish to do so. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the Slater High School gymnasium.

Following the ceremony, there will be a reception with cake, coffee and tea at the Grapevine Restaurant in Slater.