40th Annual Remember, Celebrate, Act: A Day On, Not A Day Off

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Memorial Committee held the 40th Annual Ceremony at the Ardis T. Williams Auditorium Monday evening.

Raphael Neal, a Senior at Port Gibson High School, called the assembly to order. The JROTC from Vicksburg High School presented and posted the flags, and the invocation was led by Dr. Joe N. Mosley.

The uplifting event featured community leaders and future leaders, including Brandon Nailor, who lit a candle in memory of Dr. King. Mayor Willis Thompson greeted the crowd. Lurline Green and Alma Smith were remembered, and a candle was lit in their memory.

Brigadier General (Retired) Robert Crear, who grew up in Vicksburg during the Civil Rights era, was the keynote speaker. He spoke about the struggles and sacrifices made by those who came before him and the blessings they provided. He encouraged others to keep Dr. King’s dream alive, to continue doing for others, and to find peace for themselves and their neighbors.