Poplar Bluff native Eric Summers is one of many fallen soldiers who will be honored during a remembrance ceremony from 10:30-11:30 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 10, in the back hall of the American Legion Post 153, located at 2320 Kanell Blvd. in Poplar Bluff.
“This is a ceremony to recognize the fallen, especially those from 9/11,” said Wayne Summers, manager of American Legion Post 153 in Poplar Bluff.
“There is a (Marine Corps) detachment that starts here named after our son, Staff Sgt. Eric Summers, that we lost in 2013,” said Summers.
Summers, son of Melodie and Wayne Summers, joined the Marine Corps on July 11, 2000, to serve his country. He lost his life Nov. 13, 2013, at Camp Pendleton, California.
According to Summers, this is the first time they have held a ceremony like this here in Poplar Bluff at the American Legion.
“They will have opening remarks, a prayer, the national anthem and do a 9/11 commemoration, closing remarks and a remembrance walk,” said Summers, “then we’re going to do a little cookout and stuff.”
“That is for the fallen. I think they will have flags set up to recognize those who were killed in the line of duty as well,” said Summers.
Brian Burlingame, 30-year retired Marine Corps veteran and detachment commandant, will lead the event.
“There will be 13 or 14 posters with flags at the bottom of them representing and honoring those fallen,” said Burlingame.
“This is open to everyone, veterans, first responders and residents of Poplar Bluff,” he added.
According to Burlingame, weather permitting, there will be a remembrance walk and cookout for which donations will be accepted. All proceeds go to support the Marine Corps League Staff Sgt. Eric Summers Detachment Post 1473 in Poplar Bluff.
For more information about the 9/11 Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony contact Brian Burlingame at 949-466-6977.