The Tega Cay Veterans Association invites the community to join them in honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation at their annual Memorial Day ceremony. The solemn event will take place on Monday, May 26th, at 10:00 AM at the city’s poignant Memorial Gardens.
This year’s ceremony promises to be particularly impactful with the esteemed Colonel David Rozelle (retired Army) serving as the keynote speaker. Col. Rozelle brings a profound connection to South Carolina and a distinguished military career marked by leadership, resilience, and unwavering dedication.
Col. Rozelle’s ties to the Palmetto State run deep. Growing up spending summers with his grandparents here, owning land throughout his life, and marrying a Fort Mill native, South Carolina has always held a special place in his heart. A 1995 graduate of Davidson College, he earned his active duty commission as an Armor Officer through the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Program.
Throughout his distinguished career, Col. Rozelle served primarily as an Armor/Cavalry Officer, holding crucial leadership positions ranging from tank platoon leader to the significant role of combined arms battalion commander of the 1-72 Armor Battalion in the Republic of Korea. His service spanned the globe, including four years in Korea, three deployments to Iraq, and one year in Afghanistan.
Remarkably, Col. Rozelle’s battalion command and his final three combat deployments were undertaken as a military amputee. He sustained the loss of his right leg below the knee due to a landmine in Iraq in June 2003, during his first deployment. His continued service and leadership in the face of such adversity stand as a testament to his extraordinary courage and commitment.
After retiring from the Army out of Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Col. Rozelle continues to serve the veteran community as the Director of Operations for the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs. His deep understanding of the sacrifices made by service members and his ongoing dedication make him an exceptionally fitting speaker for this important occasion.
The Memorial Day ceremony at the Tega Cay Memorial Gardens offers a vital opportunity for the community to come together, reflect, and remember the true meaning of this national holiday. By honoring those who have fallen, we ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten. All residents and visitors are encouraged to attend this moving tribute on May 26th at 10:00 AM.
