Hampton Roads Uplift Foundation Held Wreath-Laying Ceremony Honoring African American Civil War Veterans and All Fallen Heroes

By Brother Steve A. Bynum Jr.

Norfolk, VA – May 17, 2025 — On a reverent Saturday morning, the Hampton Roads Uplift Foundation, in partnership with the Lambda Omega and Gamma Xi Chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., held a powerful Wreath Laying Ceremony to honor African American Civil War veterans and all U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
The ceremony took place at 10:00 AM at the Historic West Point Cemetery, located at 238 E. Princess Anne Road in Norfolk, Virginia. The event brought together community members, military families, veterans, local leaders, and fraternity brothers in solemn remembrance and unity.

Honoring Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
The ceremony paid tribute to the countless African American soldiers who served in the United States Colored Troops (USCT) during the Civil War and the Spanish-American War —many of whom are buried at West Point Cemetery. These men, often forgotten in history, fought not only for the Union but for the future of their descendants and the principles of liberty and equality. Their legacy was remembered alongside all veterans from every era who have laid down their lives in service to America.
West Point Cemetery, one of the nation’s oldest African American cemeteries, provided a deeply symbolic setting for the event. Established in 1873, the cemetery is the final resting place for over 58 African American Civil War veterans, and it served as a solemn reminder of the struggles and triumphs of those who served.

Distinguished Guest Speakers
The event featured heartfelt remarks from two respected local leaders:

• Virginia Delegate C.E. Cliff Hayes, Jr., who spoke on the enduring impact of African American service members in shaping the nation and the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.
• Norfolk City Councilman John “JP” Paige, who emphasized the local significance of West Point Cemetery and urged the community to continue honoring the heritage and bravery of those buried there.

Their words resonated with the audience, calling for reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to remembrance.
 
 
Fraternal Commitment to Community and History
Members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., through the Lambda Omega Chapter (Norfolk) and Gamma Xi Chapter (Virginia Beach), played a leading role in organizing and participating in the ceremony. Their presence underscored the fraternity’s continued dedication to service, education, and cultural preservation.
Fraternity brothers stood in solidarity with veterans and civic leaders, helping to lay wreaths and share in the solemn moment of reflection.

Community Engagement and Reflection
The event was attended by a diverse gathering of citizens from across the Hampton Roads area. Approximately 25 guests were in attendance for the event. Veterans, students, families, and community groups joined together to pay their respects and learn more about the vital role African Americans have played in the country’s military history.
The laying of wreaths was accompanied by moments of silence. The program concluded with calls to action encouraging historical preservation, civic service, and intergenerational education.
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The Hampton Roads Uplift Foundation’s Wreath Laying Ceremony served as a moving reminder that freedom is not free—and that the sacrifices of African American Civil War and Spanish American War veterans and all fallen heroes must never be forgotten. Through remembrance and reverence, the community reaffirmed its collective responsibility to honor the past while striving toward a more just and unified future.