ASHLAND — Events for Veterans Day are planned in Ashland from morning to evening Wednesday.

Mayor Matt Miller will again host the annual Mayor’s Veterans Day Breakfast to honor the community’s military service members on Wednesday from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Club, 400 Eastlake Drive.

This marks the eighth year for this event.

Breakfast will be continuously served throughout the morning.

“We are so proud of our veterans and current service members and this annual breakfast is one way we can say thank you to these local heroes. Their service was not in vain,” the mayor said. “We are so blessed that in every generation God has raised up a group of men and women to defend our freedom by serving in our country’s military.”

Veterans and active-duty military members are welcome to stop by the Eagles Club anytime within the 90-minute window for a delicious, free breakfast assortment, including egg casserole, biscuits and gravy, pancakes and more.

This breakfast is made possible thanks to generous donations from the Fraternal Order of Eagles Club, Runyan Memorial veterans organization and numerous community supporters.

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American Legion to host Veterans Day service

Shortly following the Mayor’s Veterans Day Breakfast, a Veterans Day service is set for 10:30 a.m. at the American Legion Harry Higgins Post 88, 1338 Claremont Ave.

“We are honored to hold this ceremony in remembrance of all who have fought and sacrificed their lives for our nation and in recognition of those who continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces, steadfastly protecting the freedoms we hold dear,” said Dave Abbruzzese, commander of American Legion Post 88.

“We also pay tribute to our veterans, whose dedication endures as they continue to serve their country and communities through active involvement in veterans’ organizations.”

The service will include a welcome from Abbruzzese, followed by an invocation from Don Earlenbaugh, Post 88 chaplain. After the pledge, Jane Roland will sing the national anthem.

Abbruzzese will return as the speaker for the service and Earlenbaugh will provide the benediction. The outdoor portion of the service will take place on the front lawn.

The Ashland Veteran’s Honor Guard will close with a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps.

A meal prepared by the American Legion Auxiliary will also be served.

Eisenhower portrayal set for Wednesday evening

Wednesday evening, Ashland University College Republicans have planned a special Veterans Day event at 7 p.m. in the Ronk Lecture Hall, located inside the Dwight Schar College of Education at 340 Samaritan Ave.

The event, which is open to the public, will feature a historical portrayal of President Dwight D. Eisenhower by local guest speaker Ken Hammontree.

Hammontree will bring Eisenhower’s story to life through a historical presentation, offering attendees an opportunity to reflect on the importance of military service, patriotism and American leadership.

The event is being organized in conjunction with the In a Soldier’s Shoes Foundation and welcomes veterans, Ashland University students, faculty, staff and members of the surrounding community.

“This event will be a wonderful opportunity for veterans, students and community members to come together to honor the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation,” said John Keim, president of the Ashland University College Republicans.

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Staff reporter at Source Media Properties since 2023. Shelby High School/Kent State alum. Have a story to share? Email me at hayden@ashlandsource.com.