LIMA, OH (WLIO) - After the parade, veterans and civilians gathered at the VFW Post 1275 for a more formal tribute to the military's fallen.

May 23, 2024, Press Release from the Office of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine: (COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and First Lady Fran DeWine hosted a wreath-laying ceremony today to honor Ohio service members who sacrificed their lives while serving their country, protecting our freedom, and building a brighter future for others. The Governor’s Wreath-Laying Ceremony takes place each year ahead of Memorial Day. This year’s event was held at the Veterans Plaza on the grounds of the Ohio Statehouse. “There is a powerful message in the expression, ‘freedom is not free.’ The families of the fallen – our Gold Star families – understand this on a level the rest of us can only imagine,” Governor DeWine said. “The Ohio military men and women whom we remember and celebrate at this event were sons and daughters, mothers and fathers. They believed in freedom, took an oath to defend it, and gave their lives doing just that. We owe them a debt we can never repay.”

At 3700 sites across the United States, groups of people are gathering in cemeteries for an important task, to honor each person that has put on military uniform.  This is the 3rd year, that a Wreaths Across America Event was held at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Ottawa.  Organizer Marcia Klima wanted to take part in this growing nationwide event to honor veterans who have passed away, because of what veterans mean to her.

A local event is being held on Saturday, December 17 in Ottawa at the Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery located at 867 West Main Street. The ceremony begins at noon with wreath-laying following a short talk, a 21-gun salute, and TAPS. Names of veterans buried at the cemetery will be read while family, friends, and community place wreaths at more than 421 gravesites. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate in this special event.

Not only are there 112 trees and wreaths on display, but there are shopping opportunities too. You can buy live winter green arrangements at Gifts from the Earth, gift items can be purchased at the Holiday Boutique, and starting Friday, there will be the Little Children's Shoppe and baked goods for sale. All being fundraisers.

The American Legion Post 96 in Lima holding their annual remembrance. Dozens of wreaths from veterans organizations were placed, a 21-gun salute, and the playing of taps were also done in memory of the sacrifices of those who served. Ceremonies like these bring back memories for the veterans of their service.

Local veterans and residents paid respect to the men and women who died in the service of their country.

The American Legion post 536 in Gilboa celebrated their 100th year as a post with their traditional Memorial Day ceremony.