American Legion Post 313 Hosts Event to Honor Camp Nelson Honor Guard
Nicholasville, KY – An event to commemorate the efforts and dedication of the Camp Nelson Honor Guard was held recently at the American Legion Post 313. The ceremony highlighted the service of Colonel Tracy Lucas, the Honor Guard’s commander, who has spent over two decades with the organization.
The Honoring of Colonel Tracy Lucas
At the center of the celebration was the recognition of Colonel Tracy Lucas, who has served as the spearhead for the Honor Guard. His service of over 24 years and his initiative in starting the Honor Guard at Camp Nelson were noted with immense respect and admiration. He was also presented with a special gift from the Quilts of Valor, an organization that honors service members and veterans with wartime quilts.
Michelle Marshall, the auxiliary president of American Legion Post 313, expressed her sentiments during the ceremony, “Colonel Lucas was not expecting everyone to be here and to show their honor, support, and appreciation for his 24 years of service to Camp Nelson Honor Guard. So, he was just overwhelmed.”
The Camp Nelson Honor Guard’s Significant Role
While closely associated, the Camp Nelson Honor Guard and the Camp Nelson Cemetery are two distinct entities. The Cemetery benefits from government funding, whereas the Honor Guard relies solely on donations for its operation.
The Honor Guard comprises individuals who devote their time to safeguarding the dignity and respect of military funerals and embody a dedicated spirit to honor those who have served the nation. The Guard’s primary function is to provide military funeral honors for fallen veterans, adding an extra layer of dignity and respect to their final farewell.
A Time to Celebrate and Reflect
The ceremony, while fundamentally a celebration, also gave attendees an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifices of the brave men and women. It was a reminder of the dedicated individuals who, like Colonel Lucas, commit themselves to honoring those who dedicated their lives to protecting the nation.
The event was an echo of appreciation, encouraging continued support for the Honor Guard and recognizing the necessary role it plays in honoring the nation’s heroes.
