A large group of veterans, family members, public officials and members of the general public gathered at the War monument on Courthouse Square this (Monday) morning to observe Memorial Day. The annual event is sponsored by the Veterans of Ville Platte.

  J.D. Soileau, commander of the Viet Nam Veterans of America, Evangeline Parish Chapter conducted the program. Fr. Richard Vidrine offered the invocation and benediction.

  Evangeline Parish Clerk of Court Randy Deshotel read the names of every Evangeline Parish soldier that died in combat from the Civil War through the Gulf War, Afghanistan and Iraq wars.

  Ville Platte Mayor Jennifer Vidrine and State Representative Bernard LeBas also addressed the group assembled on courthouse square.

  The program was carried live on KVPI 1050 AM The Legend.