by Logan Andrew, Editor-in-Chief | FreeWire
Memorial Day in Bucyrus isn’t just another date on the calendar — it’s a tradition. Families gather, flags fly, and an entire town takes a moment to remember. This Monday, May 26, the community once again comes together for a morning of reflection, unity, and remembrance.
The Schedule
- 9:00 a.m. — Parade forms at Washington Square
- 9:30 a.m. — Parade steps off
- 10:00 a.m. — Ceremony begins at Oakwood Cemetery (Lemert Memorial)
Rain Plan:
If it rains Monday morning, the parade will be canceled and the ceremony will move indoors to Bucyrus Elementary School (245 Woodlawn Ave). If cemetery grounds are too wet, the program will shift to the columbarium, in the northeast corner of Oakwood Cemetery.
Leading the Procession: David Fellows, Parade Marshal
This year’s Parade Marshal is David Fellows, a Vietnam veteran and 1961 Buckeye Central graduate. Fellows served in the U.S. Air Force from 1961 to 1969, stationed in Alaska and Texas during his service.
“It was so cold the planes couldn’t even fly,” he recalled of his time in Alaska.
After the military, Fellows returned home to Bucyrus where he coached Little League baseball for 30 years, volunteered with the Veterans Honor Guard, and spent 35 years working for Ohio Power and AEP as a lineman.
“I guess I’m there because of what I did in the military. That means something,” he said of being named Parade Marshal. “It’s an honor.”
Fellows also spoke candidly about how younger generations view the military today:
“I don’t know if people really appreciate the military the way they used to,” he said. “There’s not as much discipline anymore… but some young people do get it. When they thank you, that means something.”
All current and honorably discharged veterans will be honored as Assistant Parade Marshals.
The Program: Honoring Service Through Ceremony
Master of Ceremonies this year is David Robertson, an Air Force veteran and longtime Bucyrus Police officer who has served as post adjutant of American Legion Post 181 for 36 years.
“Originally, Memorial Day was established after the Civil War,” Robertson said. “It’s about remembering those who gave everything.”
“A lot of people don’t know the history,” he added. “I think it’s important that the younger generation learns what this day was really set up for — and why it’s different from Veterans Day.”
One moment that stands out most for Robertson each year? The cemetery in full bloom, decorated and alive with remembrance.
“Seeing people show up to pay their respects — that’s what Memorial Day is about.”
Music, Memory, and Meaning
Both the Bucyrus High School and Middle School Bands will perform during the parade and ceremony, providing patriotic music to accompany the event.
The ceremony will conclude with the 21 Gun Salute during the playing of Taps by Lainey Palmer, followed by the Echo by Cami Myers — a solemn, 24-note tune that serves as a final farewell and a tribute to those who have served.
Student Reflections: The Next Generation Remembers
Two Bucyrus High School graduates will also take part in the program this year: Charles Miley, reading General Order No. 11, and Isabella Stang, who will deliver The Gettysburg Address.
For Bella, who just graduated and plans to attend Wright State University, it’s a moment of pride — and reflection.
“Our country is only as strong as its people,” she said. “As long as we continue to honor those who fought for us, we can stay strong — and our democracy stays alive.”
Bella comes from a military family. Her grandfather served in the Navy during Vietnam, and her great-uncle was in the National Guard.
She admitted that while she’s comfortable speaking, the Gettysburg Address brings its own challenges.
“Some of the language is so formal and different — and I have to work hard to slow down because I get nervous,” she said. “But I really want the audience to hear the meaning behind it.”
When asked what Memorial Day means to her personally:
“It’s a day of gratitude,” she said. “We need to remember those we’ve lost and what they fought for, so we don’t lose our way in the present.”
And if she could add her own line to the end of Lincoln’s famous speech?
“Never forget what we’ve lost. Use it to keep fighting for what they stood for.”
Everyone Has a Role to Play
- Veterans needing transportation for the parade can ride courtesy of Moose Lodge 669.
- Scouts and community groups are encouraged to join the parade formation at 9:00 a.m. in Washington Square.
- Over 3,500 flags have been placed by the Veterans Memorial Society on the graves of local service members in Bucyrus and surrounding township cemeteries.
After the Ceremony: Hog Roast at the American Legion
Following the ceremony, American Legion Post 181 (123 E. Rensselaer Street) will host a hog roast from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Meals are free for veterans
- Family and guests are welcome with a freewill donation
What You Might Not Know About Memorial Day
1. Flag Etiquette:
On Memorial Day, flags are flown at half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff — symbolizing mourning in the morning, and resilience in the afternoon.
2. General Order No. 11:
Written by General John A. Logan in 1868, this order established May 30 as a day to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers — what we now observe as Memorial Day.
3. The Lemert Memorial:
The program is held at a monument named for Colonel William Lemert, a Civil War veteran from Bucyrus who led troops at the Battle of Franklin.
4. Why Not Veterans Day?
Veterans Day celebrates all who served. Memorial Day is specifically for honoring those who died in service to their country.
5. The Echo of Taps:
When Taps is played, followed by a second bugler in the distance, it represents the final call — and a nation’s echoing memory of sacrifice.
In Honor and Gratitude
To the soldiers who never came home — to those who gave up birthdays, futures, and time with family so that others could live in peace — we remember you.
We honor your courage.
We carry your legacy.
And we will never forget your sacrifice.
This Memorial Day, Bucyrus stands with all those who gave everything for something greater than themselves.
Thank you.
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