ASHLAND — Red, white and blue hats formed an American flag when viewed from above as veterans and active-duty service members gathered Saturday at Freedom Park for a monument dedication.
The dedication took place in the Pump House District after America’s 250th Birthday Bash Parade.
The monument honors the U.S. military for their service and commitment to protecting the nation’s freedoms. The 47,000-pound granite monument from South Dakota is surrounded by six pillars. The pillars represent branches of the U.S. military, each weighing 4,000 pounds.
“May all who visit the location be reminded of the priceless value of our freedom, and may everyone who visits the place understand the sacrifice and commitment, the brave men and women of the United States military have made to ensure that all Americans can pursue their God-given potential,” Mayor Matt Miller said in presenting the monument.
State Rep. Melanie Miller opened the ceremony by singing the national anthem. Ashland’s senior veteran Joe Denbow followed, leading the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Miller spearheaded this project and said it took years to become a reality. He recognized each branch of the U.S. military, drawing applause from attendees after each branch.
“Taps” was played following the recognition. The crowd observed a moment of silence for the fallen service members.
Miller invited Todd Kleismit to the stage, the executive director for Ohio Commission for the U.S. Semiquincentennial. He thanked Ashland for their patriotism in commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
“You are doing exactly what we love to see happen all over the state, all over the country—people gathering, reflecting on this important history,” Kleismit said.
Plaques below the monument quote historical Americans about freedom, including Eleanor Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan.
The monument was made possible through contributions from Air Force veteran Bill Buckingham.
“It sounded something great for us to have in our city, a place where we can honor our veterans, and an area where they can carry on activities that might be helpful to the community,” Buckingham said.
The dedication concluded with a historical reenactment of George Washington leading the crowd in a prayer of dedication. The same prayer was delivered by Washington after stepping down as commander in chief.
“Not only are we celebrating 250 years here in the great United States of America, but here in Ashland, we are celebrating it in a permanent way,” Miller said. “Leaving a permanent marker to show future generations the value that this generation places on freedom.”
View scenes from the dedication below:
