By Rita Howell

Monday, May 30, 1977, was a sweltering day. But several hundred people gathered on the Downtown Square in Batesville that Memorial Day to dedicate the Panola County War Memorial.

The thermometer reached 99 degrees as Gov. Cliff Finch returned home to give the dedicatory address, according to the June 2, 1977, Panolian.

The monument held special meaning for his family, he told the crowd. His wife’s brother was among the Vietnam War casualties whose names were engraved there.

The monument was a project of the Batesville Exchange Club which raised the funds during its first year of existence. Originally 80 names, from World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam, were carved into the stone. Research and more recent wars have added nine Panola County names to the list, though they’re not all carved there yet.

Next Monday Memorial Day will be observed at that same spot, where now stands a handsome brick pavilion with a paved park and fountain encircling the war memorial.

The 11 a.m. program is being organized by the local VFW and everyone is invited. The purpose is to remember those who died in defense of this country, with special attention to those who left Panola County and never returned. Their names are listed in today’s newspaper on page A7 in a tribute presented by 20 area businesses.

Monday’s program will be opened with the presentation of the colors by the South Panola High School Air Force JROTC.

Members of the SPHS choir will sing the national anthem.

Local historian Robert Rawson will speak. A wreath will be laid at the base of the monument and Leroy Matthews will sound taps.