Branner Cemetery Flag Dedication

Branner Cemetery Flag Dedication at Glenmore Mansion – Staff Photo by Robin McMahon

The Branner Cemetery Flag Dedication was hosted on Friday, November 1, 2012, from 1:00 – 1:30 at the Glenmore Mansion, in Jefferson City, Tennessee. The dedication had a large turn out with members of the local JCHS JROTC, local members of the historical society, law enforcement, school board, ECT, and many of the local media outlets.

The dedication was quick and full of thanks. Program chair, Sheila Evans and the Branner Cemetery Director, Mary Gombert, told of the history of the cemetery, along with the journey of the clean up. Cleve Smith spoke and shared information about the cemetery on a display board which contained information, such as historic facts, along with a notebook on loan from the archives that will highlight the events during the clean up.

The cemetery overhaul, which had been overgrown and let go for a number of years, began back in early 2000. The original clean up committee consisted of Helen Gray, Dr. Jane Smith, Elizabeth Richardson, Cleve Smith, Rich Harlan, Bobby Shands, Ernie Hedges, Alton Horner, Neil Manley, and Ralph A. Roach.

An enormous thank you was sent out to two anonymous donors, who have provided the mowing this year and placement of the American Flag in the cemetery. Students were on site in historical costumes to greet and guide guest. The students also told stories about those who are currently laid in the cemetery, providing detailed information about their lives and deaths. The dedication of the flag was presented by the JCHS JROTC, followed by the National Anthem and the Pledge. Huge thanks were given to Helen Gray for allowing this dedication to be hosted at the Glenmore Mansion.

Branner Cemetery Flag Dedication at Glenmore Mansion – Staff Photo by Robin McMahon