The names of 187 military veterans from Bartholomew County who have died in the past year will be read during Friday’s Veterans Day program in Columbus, with a balloon released by the Bartholomew County Funeral Directors as each name is read.
The program is 11 a.m. at the Bartholomew County Veterans Memorial on the Courthouse grounds.
It will begin with the national anthem sung by Jonathan Hilber of Columbus, who studied music at Indiana University, followed by the pledge of allegiance and an invocation by Ron Bridgewater, Columbus Fire Department chaplain and pastor at East Columbus Christian Church.
Laying of wreaths will be made by representatives of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Daughters of the American Revolution and Gold Star Mothers, with music by the Southern Indiana Pipes & Drums.
The balloon release program will include “Hymn to the Fallen,” from the “Saving Private Ryan” movie, and “Amazing Grace,” by Southern Indiana Pipes & Drums.
The program includes playing of taps by the Rev. William Weaver and three rifle volleys by the Bartholomew County Honor Guard.
Bridgewater will provide the benediction and John Foster of WCSI radio, the master of ceremonies, will make closing remarks.
Veterans Day in Hope
The senior class at Hauser Jr.-Sr. High School will conduct a Veterans Day program at 8:30 a.m. Friday, organizers Taylor Hollman and Kortney Wallace said. The public is welcome and should enter at the south main gymnasium entrance, door 15.
Afterward, a free luncheon for veterans and their guests will be at the Yellow Trail Museum, 644 Main St., with serving from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday.
The meal is meant to show the community’s appreciation for the veterans’ service, organizer Barb Johnson said. If veterans are interested in sharing any of their military service stories, the museum will record them. Excerpts from last interviews of World War II veterans will be played during the gathering. No reservations are needed. Information: 812-371-7969
Special program
Trinity Lutheran High School is inviting the public to its annual Veterans Day program at 10 a.m. Friday, which will include Lt. Gov. Eric Holcomb, a Navy veteran, as the keynote speaker.
The school, located at 7120 N. County Road 875E, Seymour, is encouraging veterans and their families to attend the hour-long program led by students. A reception for guests and visitors will follow.
Veterans Day Brunch
Silver Oaks Health Campus is inviting local veterans to a Veterans Day Brunch to be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday at Silver Oaks Health Campus’ assisted living dining room, 2011 Chapa Drive, Columbus. The brunch is complimentary and there will be door prizes. Information: Courtney Crowe or Beverly Money at 812-373-0787.
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Here are some of the special perks available to veterans and military personnel Friday in Bartholomew County.
Lunch at Texas Roadhouse
Columbus’ Texas Roadhouse, located at 2508 25th St., is inviting veterans and active members of the U.S. military to join them for a free lunch to honor the men and women in the armed forces.
The lunch will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 11. Veterans can choose one of 10 available entrees, including a six-ounce sirloin with sides, along with their choice of non-alcoholic beverage.
Guests must provide proof of service such as a military or VA card or discharge papers.
Meal at Johnny Carino’s
Johnny Carino’s restaurant, 870 Creekview Drive, will be offering a free meal from a special Veterans Day menu on Friday, including unlimited soup or salad, to all active, inactive and retired military personnel on Friday. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. that day.
Free admission at kidscommons
The kidscommons children’s museum, 309 Washington St., will offer free admission Friday for all active or retired service men and women with military identification. Regular prices apply for guests of the veteran. Information: 812-378-3046.
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