After Vicksburg resident Greg Nordan watched re-enactors at Vicksburg National Military Park portray the history of American soldiers, he left with a newfound appreciation for this nation’s troops.

“The program was very educational. It was a really good tribute to our fallen soldiers and those who are currently on active duty,” said Nordan.
Nordan was among about 30 spectators at the Soldiers Through the Ages program on the lawn of the Vicksburg National Military Park at 1 p.m. Saturday.
The participants in the event gave the audience a glimpse of military history by displaying a timeline of soldiers from the American Revolution to present day National Guards.
Jake Koch, a park guide at VNMP who gave the history of the two companies of Warren County soldiers during the Mexican-American War, said he enjoyed giving the people valuable information about the war.
“I’m very glad to have participated in this program. It’s neat to show the people of Vicksburg some local history that they probably weren’t aware of,” said Koch.
Park volunteer Jeff Patrick was excited to give the viewers an idea of how life on the battlefield has been upgraded through the nation’s history.
“It’s a great opportunity to show everyone how the soldiers’ uniforms, weapons and equipment has changed over the years. It gives people an idea of how the military has advanced as far as military technology,” said Patrick before he portrayed a Union infantry private from the Siege of Vicksburg.

Christopher Mitchke of the U.S. Army National Guard said he was honored to portray a modern soldier in the event.
“I feel that being in the military is community service. So anytime I can give back to the community makes me feel good about myself,” said Mitchke, whose unit is based in Flowers.
David and Dianne Mobley said that they learned some valuable information from the program.
“This was a wonderful and informative program. I’m glad that we got a chance to see it,” said David.
“We appreciate what the soldiers have done for us because as we saw today, they have endured a lot over the years,” said Dianne.
Memorial Day Weekend events will continue Sunday at the park, as members of Standford’s Mississippi Battery will conduct artillery firings at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. near the park’s Visitor Center.
Across the city, events continue Monday.
Vicksburg’s annual Memorial Day Parade begins at 10 a.m. at Washington and Belmont streets. .
After the parade, a ceremony will be held at the city auditorium, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at 1 p.m. in Vicksburg National Cemetery.