Boughner was the speaker at Veterans Dedication Ceremony

Navy Veteran and Veterans Service Officer for Newton County, Ray Boughner addressed a standing-room-only crowd as he was the speaker for the Newton County Memorial Monument Dedication of Names Ceremony at the Howard Civic Center in Newton on Friday.

The names of Butch Bryant USAF, Sgt, and Harvey Mattox Navy, LCDR were added to the monument.

Boughner spoke on the topic of Veterans Day and Veterans. He also addressed the declining population of U.S. Veterans. The number of which is now only 6.9% of all Americans. Boughner added, "Who's going to fill their shoes?"

Other speakers at the event were Master of Ceremonies MSGT E7 USAF Ben Lindsey, Spec 4, USA John Jefferson, Tom Gill who gave the Invocation and Benediction, Spec E5 USA Bo Siau, and Sgt Bill Fuller who introduced Newton County Court and Dignitaries. Newton ISD Band members presented the 'Star Spangled Banner', and the 'Melody of Armed Service Branches' led by director Marsha Peppas.

Michael Johnson, Director of NHS Band presented 'Taps' in the closing of the ceremony.

Then on Sunday, Boughner addressed the congregation at Vision Outreach Full Gospel Church in Kirbyville.

Boughner is a retired Senior Chief Torpedoman's Mate for the U.S. Navy and a current Veterans Service Officer at Newton County assisting Veterans.

Thank you for your service to our Country!