Eight years ago today, August 8th, 45-year-old Army Command Sergeant Major Kevin Griffin was killed in action while serving in Afghanistan. An “Angelversary” was planned by the VFW today, for Griffin’s family, local veterans and community members to pay their respects to CSM Griffin.
Today’s ceremony also included a rededication of his replacement Battlefield Cross Memorial that had been vandalized in November 2019. Yesterday, Lander-based Eagle Bronze Foundry mounted the replacement memorial.
Speaking during today’s ceremony included CSM Griffin’s brother Shawn Griffin, Governor Mark Gordon, Riverton Mayor Richard Gard, and Wyoming Senator Eli Bebout.
During Shawn’s speech, he shared memories of his brother with attendees. “He had a big heart,” he noted about Kevin.”He was the life of the party from the time he was little until the time of his unfortunate passing.”
Mayor Gard shared his appreciation for the community coming together to make this replacement memorial possible. He also spoke of the impact Griffin had on his life.
Senator Bebout and Governor Gordon both spoke about their appreciation for Griffin in making the ultimate selfless sacrifice for this country.
For those unable to be in attendance today, County 10 did record the ceremony which is shared below. Please note, it can be a little hard to hear at times.