NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Gov. Bill Haslam says family members of soldiers killed in combat deserve more recognition.
The governor, members of his cabinet and other military officials held a Memorial Day event on Thursday to honor seven Tennesseans killed in action, including two soldiers previously missing in action for several decades.
In past ceremonies, the names of the deceased were called and a member of that person's branch of military would come forward.
But for the first time on Thursday, a family member received a memorial presentation or medal from Haslam and his wife on behalf of the deceased. Details were also read about each person's death.
Haslam said he thought it appropriate to give family members more participation because they "have made such a big sacrifice."
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