Fulton State Hospital Memorial Observance to honor staff, clients

Every Memorial Day for the past 14 years, Fulton State Hospital takes a day to commemorate the loss of clients and staff members and to appreciate the military service of the staff and their immediate family.

This year, the service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on May 21 at the FSH Patient Cemetery. The program will last approximately 40 minutes. Attendees are encouraged to wear everyday attire.

The program will feature music and prayer and also will include a 21-gun salute by the Veterans of Foreign Service Honor Guard.

"We have guitars and violins and all these different things that our staff members do that are really, really good," Chaplain Dan Russell said about the planned activities for the service.

More than 50 deceased staff members and clients will be recognized, as well as more than 20 people who are currently serving the country.

"Respect for our nation is what Memorial Day is really about," said Russell. "It's certainly far more than a three-day holiday weekend at the lake. I hope that community members understand the importance of people who have worked, lived and served at Fulton State Hospital."