Storm clouds and rumbles of thunder did not deter some 200 faithful who participated in the Memorial Service to honor the service and sacrifice of  Confederate Soldiers buried in Spring-wood Cemetery in downtown Greenville.

The service began with a prelude by the Joyful Harps, followed by the assemblage of troops including the Butler Guards and 16th Regiment SCV Honor Guard.

The Call to Order was issued by Commander James Bouchillon, 16th Regiment, SCV, Camp No. 36. Invocation by the 16th Regiment Chaplain, Rev. Mark W. Evans.

Colors were posted by the Honor Guard and Pledges led by Douglas Taylor, Regimental Color Sergeant.

Commander Bouchillon recited the Charge to the Sons of Confederate Veterans first issued by Lt. General Stephen Dill Lee, Commander General, United Confederate Veterans in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1906.

“To you, Sons of Confederate Veterans, we submit the vindication of the Cause for which we fought, to your strength will be given the defense of the Confederate Soldier’s good name, the guardianship of his history, the emulation of his virtues, the perpetuation of those principles he loved and which made him glorious and which you also cherish.

“Remember it is your duty to see that the true history of the South is presented to future generations.”

Commander Bouchillon welcomed guests and introduced the leaders of local organizations who extended greetings from their membership.

United Daughters of the Confederacy were represented by SC Division President and Winnie Davis Chapter #442 president Mrs. Edward E. Van Schaik, Jr.

Mrs. James Pavluk represented Greenville Chapter 51; Mrs. Thomas Beacham extended greetings from Hampton-Lee Chapter #1281; Mrs. Michael Leake represented Oliver Thompson Chapter #1850; and Mrs. Raymond Sheen represented Hunley Chapter #2667. Mrs. Jack Marlar extended greetings from the Varina Howell Davis Chapter #1, Order of the Confederate Rose.

The Military Order of Stars and Bars, the descendants of Confederate Officers and Children of the Confederacy were also represented.

The Joyful Harps, Heather and Raquelle Sheen, presented General Robert E. Lee’s favorite hymn, “How Firm a Foundation.”

The speaker for the service was The Honorable Daniel Byron Verdin III, Member of the South Carolina State Senate and Past Commander of the South Carolina Division, Sons of Confederate Veterans. The text of his timely address will be published on these pages at a later date.

Ron Hamilton presented “Amazing Grace” on the pipes, followed by a reading by John Vaughn, Captain, 2nd SCVI, Butler Guards.

Laying of wreaths on the graves of Unknown Confederate Soldiers was conducted by representatives of participating organizations, followed by the ceremonial “passing of the canteen” by the Butler Guards.

The service concluded with the singing of “Dixie” led by Ron Hamilton, a gun salute by the Butler Guards, a Cannon Salute by Jack Marlar, Palmetto Light Artillery, and retirement of the colors by the 16th SCV Honor Guard.