27-05-2025
Locals, tourists honor the fallen at Beaufort National Cemetery
BEAUFORT, S.C. (WSAV) — Whether they know a veteran who laid down their life, or not, hundreds of folks gathered on Beaufort's National Cemetery grounds Monday to pay their respect back to those who sacrificed their tomorrows for our todays.
Lowcountry residents and tourists made their way to the national cemetery in Beaufort to watch the Memorial Day ceremony.
Once the ceremony was wrapped, several folks ventured off to explore the grounds. Many took the time to thank the tens of thousands of soldiers buried beneath the soil; many of whom lost their life in action.
'This day means everything that we have here in this country. Our freedoms, everything that the people who came before us fought for to preserve for us,' said Robert Smeltzer.
Smeltzer traveled in from Summerville to visit his father buried in the cemetery.
Ray Richards, a member of the South Carolina Patriot Guard Riders, which is a national volunteer organization that honors Veterans by standing at their funeral, said they were a part of many burials at Beaufort National Cemetery, so paying their respects back on Memorial Day was important to them.
'They're the ones that have stood up for us and helped keep America free. So, we're here just to honor them and their family and respect the service they gave our nation,' Richards said.
Several folks said the meaning of today can get lost in a day off work, parties, and celebrations, but the true meaning has always been to honor the ones who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
'Don't forget what this day is all about. The reason why we are free to talk as we are right here is because of those who served,' said Smeltzer.
Bruce Holden, who also traveled in to pay his respects, added, 'It's all for America. The United States, our Constitution, freedom and liberty.'
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