One of Columbus’ most revered annual ceremonies has been canceled.
Due to concern over the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual Columbus and Bartholomew County Community Memorial Day service on May 25 has been canceled.
The decision by the Bartholomew County Veterans Committee was announced Friday by committee member and retired U.S. Air Force General Mark Pillar.
But the 11 a.m. ceremony at the Bartholomew County Memorial for Veterans is just one of a number of observances held in the region to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Besides the 11 a.m. event, no announcements have been made regarding other observances at this time.
For example, about 50 people usually attend a 9 a.m. ceremony on the Robert N. Stewart Bridge overlooking the East Fork White River in downtown Columbus. Rose petals are thrown into the river to commemorate Navy personnel buried at sea.
A more religious observance is held at 10 a.m. in the veterans’ section at Garland Brook Cemetery. Usually, two members of the clergy are invited to provide spiritual comfort to families who lost a loved one.
