LOCAL CIVIL WAR VET HONORED
The Fourth of July celebrates America’s birthday and independence. It is also a day to remember those who fought to keep that independence.
Family and friends gathered to remember William Riley Shannon. “The story goes Riley had his horse shot out from under him, and both times he kept the flag from hitting the ground,” said Melinda Shannon Freels, great great granddaughter of Shannon. “We all thought that was remarkable. Even as a child, I was intrigued by that story.”
William Riley Shannon was a Civil war veteran. “He fought for the same things we fight for, our country, our flag,” said Master Sergeant Richard Hancock of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment. “We’re fighting for the same thing. It’s just 140 years later.”
William Riley Shannon has been dead for 97 years. Though he fought for the union and was honorably discharged, Shannon never received military honors, and the only thing that marked his grave was a field stone.
“Anyone who serves this country doesn’t deserve to be in an unmarked grave. So after 97 years, I’m very glad Riley will have some peace, and hopefully so will I,” said Melinda. She has been working for 25 years to trace her ancestors and to prove where her great great grandfather is buried, so he could finally get the honors he deserved.
“I think it’s important to recognize that, be proud of it, and I think it sets an example today in our country to realize what our brave men and women are sacrificing,” said Melinda. “They have to be remembered.”
Melinda has brought family members together from across the country to honor Shannon and get to know each other. “She really had a goal in mind and she went after it and she accomplished it,” said Billy Joe Shannon, great grandson of William Riley Shannon.
It is the highest honor for a veteran, a service usually performed at a funeral. This one is the first this group has ever performed for a Civil War veteran.
“I think it’s real fitting after 97 years. He fought for the union, and he was an American soldier just like we are,” said Master Sergeant Hancock. “He fought with the Cavalry and we’re the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment. It’s a great honor to do this for the families of service men. It just kind of provides closure for them.”
William Riley Shannon enlisted in the Union army in 1862. He served as flag bearer for the Eleventh and Ninth Tennessee Cavalry and was honorably discharged in 1865.
7/4/2004 WBIR-TV, Knoxville, TN
Reporter: Herryn Riendeau