By Logan Andrew | FreeWire — Your News, Your Voice
BUCYRUS — November 11, 2025
On a night dedicated to remembrance, gratitude, and unity, Crawford County came together at Bucyrus High School to honor the newest members of the Crawford County Veterans Hall of Fame. The annual ceremony, held Monday evening, paid tribute to three servicemen whose legacies span generations of American history — Kenneth R. Carroll, Justin Kyle Adams, and John Green.
A Night of Music, Memory, and Meaning
Before the first speech was given, the gymnasium echoed with the sound of a single, powerful note. It came from a county-wide band composed of students from multiple area schools — young musicians who had just one hour of joint rehearsal before the event. What followed was nothing short of remarkable.
From the opening strains of the National Anthem to the full military medley, the band’s performance evoked emotion from several attendees. Speaker after speaker praised their discipline, harmony, and sense of purpose — a fitting reminder that honoring veterans isn’t just about the past, but about passing their values forward.
(Photo/Video: County band performs during the 2025 Crawford County Veterans Hall of Fame ceremony at Bucyrus High School.)
Honoring a Lifetime of Service
This year’s inductees reflected the depth and diversity of service found across Crawford County’s history:
- Kenneth R. Carroll, a Vietnam veteran born in Crestline, served with the 8th Infantry Airborne and 509th Airborne Infantry. After returning home, he devoted decades to civic and professional life — earning awards through the Crestline Jaycees, the North Central Ohio Purchasing Association, and the American Legion.
- Justin Kyle Adams, a 1999 Colonel Crawford graduate and Army Staff Sergeant in the 503rd MP Airborne out of Fort Bragg, served three tours in Iraq. Even after being wounded multiple times, he was known for his optimism and leadership. Diagnosed with stage-three melanoma in 2010, Adams fought courageously until his passing in 2012. His family accepted the honor in his memory.
- John Green, born in Württemberg, Germany in 1825, immigrated to Crawford County and went on to serve with distinction through the Mexican-American War, Civil War, and Indian Wars. Rising through the ranks to Brigadier General, Green earned the Medal of Honor for gallantry in 1873 — a legacy reaching back nearly two centuries.
(Photo: Representatives accept awards on behalf of 2025 inductees Kenneth Carroll, Justin Kyle Adams, and John Green.)
Words of Gratitude
Charles Christman, president of the Veterans Hall of Fame Board, delivered opening remarks in place of Galion Mayor Tom O’Leary, who was unable to attend for reasons not made immediately clear. Christman welcomed the crowd and reminded attendees that the night’s purpose was “to celebrate not only our veterans’ service, but the communities and families who continue their legacy.”
The invocation and benediction were both given by a guest in military uniform — a Navy officer whose words framed the evening in solemn gratitude. His closing prayer, urging unity “in purpose and in peace,” marked a quiet but powerful conclusion to the ceremony.
State Representative Riordan McClain shared remarks recognizing the inductees’ contributions to both Ohio and the nation, while a representative from Governor Mike DeWine’s office read a message of appreciation from the governor.
John Harris Jr., Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, served as guest speaker, praising the inductees’ courage and emphasizing that honoring veterans is “a duty that transcends politics or generations — it’s the measure of our gratitude as Americans.”
Both the Crawford County Commissioners and Bucyrus Mayor Bruce Truka issued proclamations officially declaring November 11, 2025, as Crawford County Veterans Hall of Fame Day.
(Photo: John Harris Jr., Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, addresses the audience.)
Preserving a County Tradition
Founded in 2006, the Crawford County Veterans Hall of Fame was created after residents noted the lack of a unified local celebration honoring veterans. That conversation gave rise to a county-wide effort that has since recognized dozens of servicemen and women across generations.
Each year’s ceremony blends solemn reflection with community celebration — and this year’s event was no exception. As the final notes of Taps faded through the gymnasium, attendees stood silently, hands over hearts, united in respect.
In a time when unity can feel fleeting, the evening at Bucyrus High School offered something rare and deeply meaningful: a shared moment of gratitude for those who served — and a reminder that the freedom enjoyed today was secured by the courage of yesterday.
