La Belle Teen Honored for Playing Taps at Veterans’ Funeral Services

LA BELLE, MO- Walter Lay, a 16-year-old from La Belle, was honored Thursday in the Highland High School gymnasium for his service to local veterans and their families through the playing of Taps at military funeral services.

Lay, the son of Carson and Jen Lay, has been playing Taps since about December 2024. In that time, he has assisted with funeral honors in several Lewis County communities, including Canton, Monticello, La Belle, La Grange and Williamstown.

The recognition was presented on behalf of the Canton and Lewistown American Legion posts. Associate Circuit Judge Corey Moon, who is also a member of the Canton American Legion Post, spoke during the ceremony and said Lay has become an important part of the local funeral honors program.

Moon said funeral honors carry deep meaning for veterans and their loved ones. Local American Legion members, along with state-sponsored funeral honors personnel, help conduct the services, which often include a rifle salute and the playing of Taps.

Moon said that when he first became involved with the program, the post was using a rented bugle with an audio insert that played Taps at the push of a button. While it was the next best option available, Moon said it was not the same as having someone play it in person.

That changed when the Legion was introduced to Lay.

Moon said Lay was first asked to play at a funeral and did an excellent job. From there, he continued to be invited back. Over time, Lay not only played Taps but also filled in as a rifleman when the Legion was short on members.

“He has shown up time after time, he’s played Taps with honor, and he has made us all proud,” Moon said.

Moon also noted how difficult it can be to find volunteers, especially for something as solemn and important as funeral honors. Lay, he said, has answered the call each time.

As a token of appreciation, Lay was presented with a signed certificate of appreciation and a $100 gas card from Murphy’s Filling Station in Monticello.

The honor recognized not only Lay’s musical ability, but also his willingness to serve at an age when many young people are focused elsewhere. Through his role, Lay has helped provide a live and respectful playing of Taps for veterans and their families across Lewis County.