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The United States Congress passed a resolution in 2010, stating that the second Sunday in August would be a celebration of national unity and our appreciation for the men and women who were in the military during World War II. World War II officially ended in August 1945. The war in Europe ended May 8, 1945, but the Japanese did not officially surrender until September 2, 1945.

Sunday, August 12th, being the second Sunday in August, the Travelers Rest community celebrated the annual “Spirit ‘45" at the Reedy River Baptist Church. More than 300 guests attended the celebration program, which included 24 WWII veterans.

Wayne McCall, Mayor of Travelers Rest, read the proclamation that was passed by the Mayor and City Council declaring second Sunday in August would be known as “Spirit ’45 in Travelers Rest, SC.

Greenville American Legion Post 3 Color Guard presented the colors during the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag and the “Star Spangled Banner” was sung by the Travelers Rest High School Alumni Chorus, directed by Mrs. Patricia Hunt Fisher.

Dr. Lamar McCarrell introduced Michael Cogdill, WYFF-TV News Anchor, as the featured speaker. Mr. Cogdill paused and, looking at the WWII veterans sitting together, told the audience, “This is the ‘Greatest Generation.’” These are the men who joined the military to protect the United States.

Michael Cogdill was chosen to join 80 WWII veterans on a recent “Upstate Honor Flight” which carried the WWII veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the World War II Memorial that was built in their honor. They also visited the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Wall and the Iwo Jima Memorial, as well as visiting Arlington National Cemetery watching the changing of guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The indoor program was ended with the retirement of the colors.

The audience was invited to go outside for a solemn ceremony in honor of our deceased soldiers. “Taps” was played by Rich Wilson and Post 3 Color Guard fired a rifle volley salute.

Several WWII vehicles were on display, and WWII memorabilia was on display in a fellowship room inside the church building.

“Spirit ‘45" is presented under the auspices of the Travelers Rest Historical Society, Mrs. Dot Bishop, President. Mayor Wayne McCall and Mrs. Dianna Turner, City Manager, represented the City of Travelers Rest.

 

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