Veteran honored with special service
JACKSON, Tenn.—One local war hero is honored in a special service.
Today, WWI veteran George Burney, Jr. was honored with a grave marking ceremony.
The special service honoring Burney began at 10 this morning at Mount Olivet Cemetery located at 300 East Forest Avenue in Jackson.
Burney was an African American who served in WWI and was honored with several medals before he passed in 1919.
Upon burial Burney’s grave was unmarked. Today’s ceremony was created to change just that.
Burney’s grave was marked at the service which included “Taps,” performed by the Military Honor Guard, along with a 21 Gun Salute.
During the service, he was also honored with a proclamation from the French government and the City of Jackson.
“His family has come from several states to recognize the service of their great great uncle George, and to thank him and also, so his home town can thank him for his bravery, for his service, and how he served with honor to represent Jackson, Tennessee,” said Ricky Long, Madison Co. Historian.
Several of Burney’s family members came from all over the U.S. to attend this special service.
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