Polk County joined the nation in observing Memorial Day by honoring veterans and military men and women. The Polk County Honor Guard (right) kicked off the Singing for the Soldiers event Monday, May 28 with a 21-gun salute in honor of the men and women from Polk County who gave their lives for their country. The honor guard also participated in a service at Polk County Memorial Gardens Monday morning. Members of the Polk County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9116 and the Ladies Auxiliary on Saturday placed flags on the graves of more than 375 veterans. In Saluda, Dr. Jerry Russell held a program on Monday to honor veterans and military men and women. For more photos, see page 3. (photos by Leah Justice)