JEROMESVILLE — There will be a special Veterans Day Program, including the unveiling of a Veterans Memorial installment on school grounds.
The memorial is an Eagle Scout Service Project by one of Hillsdale’s own, Lance Tucker, a member of the class of 2024.
There will also be a complimentary breakfast for the veterans following the program.
The guest speaker will be Tom Ballinger.
Tom Ballinger
Hillsdale Local Schools is honored to have Mr. Tom Ballinger as our distinguished guest speaker for this event,” the school announced in a press release. “Mr. Ballinger is a lifelong resident of Wayne County, having graduated from Smithville High School in 1990.
“After joining the Army, Mr. Ballinger served in various locations, including Kitzingen Germany, Texas, Kentucky, and Kansas.Â
“Mr. Ballinger is an Audie Murphy member and has received numerous prestigious awards, such as the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (5 Oak Leaf clusters), Army Achievement Medal (7 Oak Leaf clusters), Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and was even recommended for the Bronze Star.
“He completed a 13-month deployment to the Al Anbar Province of Iraq, including combat missions in Ramadi and Fallujah. Mr. Ballinger continues to serve as a Detective for the Copley Police Department, following his earlier service with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.”
WHO: An impressive 80 veterans have already confirmed their attendance, 5th to 12th-grade Hillsdale students and staff, both in attendance and involvement in the program.
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 10 at 8 a.m.
WHERE:Â Main Gym in the school building; please enter through the event entrance.
WHY:Â To celebrate and honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans. This event is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with our local heroes and to show our deep appreciation for their commitment to our country.