May 18, 1998

Columbia  -- Lieutenant Governor Bob Peeler kicked off the second annual nationwide campaign calling on all Americans to renew the true meaning of Memorial Day during a brief news conference this afternoon. Peeler, Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Col. Charles Murray and former Veterans of Foreign Wars State Commander Bill Lark lit the South Carolina Remembrance Candle in the shadow of the Vietnam Monument at Columbia's Veterans Memorial Park while officials in state capitols all over America simultaneously kindled Remembrance Candles in a unique display of national unity.

The U.S. Marine Corps and the South Carolina National Guard served as coordinators for the special tribute. Other participants included members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Vietnam Veterans of South Carolina. Col Timothy A. Scully represented Fort Jackson. Brigadier General Harry B. Burchstead represented the South Carolina National Guard.

Like many national holidays, Memorial Day is often seen as a day off rather than as a day to connect with our nation, its history, and core values. The lighting of the State Remembrance Candle is part of a national campaign sponsored by the non-profit humanitarian organization, No Greater Love, to promote an active, informed, and meaningful participation in the observance of Memorial Day. The theme of this campaign is A Moment of Remembrance.

"Our goal is to put 'Memorial' back in Memorial Day," said Lt. Governor Peeler. "I urge all South Carolinians to share this moment with their friends and families. Say a prayer for those who died, for the loved ones left behind, and for the safety of our country. As these brave heroes came together in a time of threat and war, let us all unite in their memory in a moment of remembrance, respect and rededication."

The Honorary Chairman of the Moment of Remembrance campaign is President Bill Clinton. Members of the distinguished Honorary Committee include former U.S. Presidents and their spouses.

The lighting of the South Carolina Remembrance Candle serves as a prelude to the National Moment of Remembrance which will occur at 3:00p.m. on Memorial Day. At this time, No Greater Love is asking Americans to pause in remembrance as television stations, radio stations and participating sites across the country air a moving 60-second spot which will include "Taps". Also, Amtrak will blow its train whistles as a gesture of remembrance.