Roanoke Chapter
Roanoke, Virginia
Massing Of the Colors
The Massing of the Colors is a
patriotic ceremony and is a living and moving tribute to the dead of all
previous wars It combines a procession of the colors and color guards
of local military, veterans, civic, and patriotic organizations to the
front of the facility, an opening song, a reading of a Patriotic Lesson,
a short memorial address, a Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, the playing
of the National Anthem, and a formal recognition of the Colors, followed
by a recessional song. The ceremony is relatively short, but moving and
meaningful.
The purpose of the Massing
of the Colors is to rededicate our faith in the colors of the United
States and to present our support of those Colors and of the Servicemen
and Servicewomen those Colors represent. The Massing originated with
The Society of the Massing of the Colors which was organized on Armistice
Day,1922, by distinguished military officers, veterans and civic leaders.
The Military Order of the World Wars took over the Promotion of this
inspiring ceremony when The Society of the Massing of the Colors faded
away.
In 1963, the Massing of the
Colors,for the first time, included all elements of the Armed Forces
of the United States - The Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast
Guard and The Merchant Marine Academy.
We are ever mindful of the
personal sacrifice made and being made by our Servicemen and Servicewomen
of every race, color and creed on duty here and around the world and
also those who have given their lives or have endured pain and imprisonment
so we can continue to maintain our freedom. The Massing of the Colors
is an opportunity for us to show our respect for those sacrifices and
to show respect for the symbols of our nation.
Presidents Day Weekend
Approximately 50 color guard
units will be represented in this event presented for the public. News
media will also be in attendance. Individuals of all ages are invited.
This event is especially colorful and inviting for the younger generations
and children. Historical flags from the pre-Revolutionary, and early
American period of our history will be on display. There is no cost
to attendees.
Portions excerpted from Officer Review,
July 1994.
MOWW Roanoke Chapter Staff
Roanoke Valley Veterans Organization
e-mail dcca@roanoke.infi.net
(David Caldwell)
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