Wauseon’s annual parade and ceremony memorializing the day took place Monday at the Wauseon Union Cemetery.
A glorious weather day was shared by veterans and citizens alike who showed their compassion and rememberance for those who gave all for their country during the war times in our history.
The Wauseon Marching Band opened the ceremony with the National Anthem. Then Jerry Leupp, Commander of the Wauseon VFW post 7424 led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
World War II veteran, DeFord Schwall, a staple at the event for many years, was on hand to introduce and recognize his fellow veterans who served between World War II, Korea and Vietnam.
After the Americanism Medals were presented to several Wauseon High School students, seniors Katie Spieles and Chris Yackee were on hand to read “In Flander’s Field” and the “Gettysburg Address”.
The speaker for the event was MG (retired) J. Ronald Bowman who spoke of his comrades who gave their lives and who will always be remembered on this special day.
The annual wreaths presentation was made by Julie Schaffner, Nancy Vela and Commander Kendall Roth following General Bowman’s speech.
The moving “Three Volley Rifle Salute” was followed by a stirring rendition of “Taps” played by Chris Yackee and fellow Wauseon bandsman Ashlyn Boyers.
The Honorable James Barber served at Master of Ceremonies. Barber serves as the Americanism Chairman of the American Legion Robinson-Gibbs Post #265.