Coshocton celebrates Memorial Day
COSHOCTON - Cookouts, swimming pools and the official kickoff of summer -- though all reasons to get out and enjoy Memorial Day, not forgetting the true reason for the day is most important of all.
This was on the minds of many Monday who came out to remember and honor members of the armed forces who gave their lives for their country.
The annual Memorial Day parade that wound through downtown Coshocton, and the services that followed on the court square, provided the opportunity for members of the community to show their gratitude.
George Leach of Coshocton has often participated in the Coshocton County Honor Guard at such events, but said he came out Monday to observe the ceremony.
The World War II Army veteran has also participated in the local honor guard at more than 1,400 funerals to honor area veterans that have died. It’s all part of paying tribute to those who have served their country in the armed forces, he said.
“I think it’s so important to remember their sacrifice.”
Leach was drafted into the Army while he was in high school. “I was only 18 years old, I didn’t know any different,” he said.
Serving in Europe during World War II and having three brothers who also served helped him realize the importance of day like Memorial Day to always remember, he said.
“It’s just good that we recognize the veterans that have fallen, and all that have served our country,” he said.
Following the parade that stepped off on the corner of Eighth and Main streets, a service on the court square was held that featured guest speakers and moments of remembrance.
Blue Star Mothers historian Betty Rochester spoke, and Sarah Kittner, winner of the River View High School Voice of Democracy contest ,read her essay.
The names of 73 area veterans that died in the past year were read while Boy Scout Troop 402 and Cub Scout Pack 402 placed flags along the court square and Girl Scout Troop 2527 released balloons. A memorial wreath was placed by World War II veterans Doris and Terence Casey.
“It’s very humbling to speak today,” said featured speaker Gary Baker, son of World War II veteran and former prisoner of war Lewis “Ed” Baker, who died in September.
Baker read memories of his father’s time serving in Europe and experiences as a POW. He also addressed the crowd that gathered along the court square about the importance of recording the memories of family members who have served in the armed forces to pass along their true stories of the sacrifice and the cost of freedom.
“I had told myself when my father passed away that I would continue to tell his story of service during World War II. It’s a thank you to my dad and to all of those who have served,” Baker said.
In addition to Lewis “Ed” Baker, former World War II POW Walter Endlich also recently passed away, said Jim Barstow, Coshocton County Veterans Services Officer. Another area World War II veteran and former POW, Robert W. Hagans, rode in parade.
“These are the veterans who almost gave the ultimate sacrifice,” said Barstow of the former POWs. “They deserve our respect for their service along with those who died serving their country.”
Barstow went on to say that the Memorial Day event was made possible by the help of Coshocton County Veterans Services executive assistant Patty Dilly, and is important because it brings awareness to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. It’s also important for younger generations to understand the significance of the sacrifices that service men and women have given to their country.
“It’s one of the most precious holidays we have. That’s why the effort goes into hosting this service each year,” said Barstow. “We want to reach out to younger folks, and give them the opportunity to meet veterans and learn about their sacrifices.”
