Several communities across Logan and Champaign Counties came together Monday to honor the men and women who gave their lives while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Featured speaker Logan County Commissioner Joe Antram shared thoughts on patriotism, remembrance, and respect during the Memorial Day program in Lakeview.
“Three important things we can do on Memorial Day is to acknowledge the sacrifices made by service members, to provide solace to the family and friends that still grieve their loss of loved ones and to encourage all Americans to reflect on the values of freedom and peace,” Antram said.
Additional photos from Bellefontaine’s ceremony, courtesy of Gary Kauffman:
Residents gathered in Middleburg Monday as Zane Township hosted its 87th Annual Memorial Day Parade and ceremony, honoring veterans, community leaders, and local traditions.
Master of Ceremonies Joel Penhorwood opened the ceremony by introducing Joey Adams of Union Chapel Church for the invocation.
The Benjamin Logan Middle School Band performed the National Anthem before attendees joined in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Veterans past and present were recognized during the ceremony, while Grand Marshals Mark and Joan Henry were honored for their contributions to the community. Joan Henry also performed a vocal selection during the event.
Guest speaker Thad McGehee delivered remarks to the crowd, and honored senior citizens Mike and Vicki were recognized as part of the ceremony. Taps were played before the benediction concluded the formal program.
Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to the America 250 celebration at the park, which featured a car show, free food, bounce houses, games, and a “Touch a Truck” display hosted by the Allen Township Fire Department.
Pictures courtesy of Gary Kauffman:
Additional photos from the Memorial Day ceremony at West Liberty, courtesy of Gary Kauffman:
In Rushsylvania, the Rushsylvania Lions Club hosted Memorial Day services.
Lion President Bill Wreede served as master of ceremonies, while Rushsylvania Mayor Jason Miller, who is also a Lions Club member, delivered the prayer after Cody Caudill was unable to attend.
Lion Mike Wroten laid memorial flowers during the ceremony, and featured speaker Will Ricketts spoke about the meaning of Memorial Day and remembered military members from the Rushsylvania area who lost their lives in service to the country during wars and conflicts over the years.
Ricketts encouraged those in attendance to never forget the sacrifices made to protect the nation’s freedoms.
The Benjamin Logan Middle School Band performed patriotic music and played taps during the ceremony.
About 60 people gathered Sunday afternoon at Huntsville Cemetery as the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 381 hosted its annual Memorial Day Ceremony honoring veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Benji Avila served as master of ceremonies for the event, while Ashley Sloan performed the National Anthem.
A highlight of the ceremony came from Kingston Henry of Calvary Christian School, who read his winning essay titled “Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday & Veterans Who Fought for Our Freedom.”
Members of Unit 381 presented several ceremonial wreaths honoring veterans and military service branches.
Roxie Tracy presented the Gold Star Mother wreath, Diane Mouser represented the Army, Christine Trout the Marine Corps, Bev Martz the Navy and Coast Guard, Debi Sherer the Air Force and Space Force, Chris Hurley the Vietnam War wreath, and Terri Lamb presented the All Wars wreath.
The featured speaker for the ceremony was Chief Warrant Officer 3 Anthony Jenkins of the Army National Guard, who has served for 21 years.
Music during the event included “Let Freedom Ring,” performed by the Indian Lake Choir under the direction of Tracy Notestine.
The Honor Guard from American Legion Post 266 rendered a 21-gun salute, while Maddie Lease-Breakey performed Taps to conclude the ceremony.
