Honoring Heroes: Memorial Day Events in Lake Charles at Avenue of Flags and Veterans' War Memorial
Avenue of Flags
Memorial Day in Lake Charles provides meaningful opportunities to honor those who sacrificed for our freedoms. Visit the Avenue of Flags at Orange Grove and Graceland Cemeteries, where over 1,000 casket flags line the drive in tribute to fallen service members. Flags are displayed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Memorial Day, featuring a special service at 9 a.m. The site also includes a history circle with replicas of eight historic U.S. flags, displayed again on Veterans Day.
Veterans' War Memorial
At Veterans' War Memorial Park on the Lakefront Promenade, discover the heroic story of a soldier who gave his life to save his comrades.
Photo by www.lindseyjanies.com
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. 1st Lt. Fournet, Infantry, distinguished himself in action while serving as rifle platoon leader of the 2d Platoon, Company B. While advancing uphill against fortified enemy positions in the A Shau Valley, the platoon encountered intense sniper fire, making movement very difficult. The right flank man suddenly discovered an enemy claymore mine covering the route of advance and shouted a warning to his comrades. Realizing that the enemy would also be alerted, 1st Lt. Fournet ordered his men to take cover and ran uphill toward the mine, drawing a sheath knife as he approached it. With complete disregard for his safety and realizing the imminent danger to members of his command, he used his body as a shield in front of the mine as he attempted to slash the control wires leading from the enemy positions to the mine. As he reached for the wire the mine was detonated, killing him instantly. Five men nearest the mine were slightly wounded, but 1st Lt. Fournet's heroic and unselfish act spared his men of serious injury or death. His gallantry and willing self-sacrifice are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the U.S. Army."
Douglas Fournet's son, Bill Fournet, looks into the face of his father.
Photo by www.lindseyjanies.com
