Memorial Day Observance at Highland Park High School
On May 25, the City of Highland Park held its annual Memorial Day Observance inside Highland Park High School’s auditorium. The event commenced at 11 a.m., featuring words of encouragement displayed on a wall, “Dream… Believe… Achieve…” These words set the tone for the meaningful ceremonies honoring the community’s veterans.
Following the program, attendees enjoyed a barbecue lunch outdoors in the warm courtyard, facilitated by the Jewish War Veterans Post 29, who also conducted the bell ceremony. The ceremonial bell is rung three times to honor those lost.
Remarks from Community Leaders
Mayor Nancy Rotering remarked, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate a great community and a wonderful country.” The event included speeches, performances by the Highland Park High School Band, and a poignant rendition of “Taps” by bugle musicians.
Guest speakers included Sonja Marie Martin, a retired U.S. Army staff sergeant, and Lt. Colonel Ryan M. Dunbar. Martin, a Highland Park resident since 2011, expressed her love for the community, saying, “The people, the area, are really great. They really do welcome you in.”
Lt. Colonel Dunbar, serving the military for twenty years, echoed this sentiment, “The community is wonderful.” Martin and Dunbar both highlighted the community’s resilience, especially following the tragic shooting during the Independence Day parade in 2022.
Honoring Sacrifices
Linda Iovino, of Highland Park High School’s Class of 1970 and a representative of the American Legion Auxiliary, shared her family’s history of military service. Her father, Neil P. Iovino, served from 1939 to 1948, surviving hardships such as the Bataan Death March.
Linda Iovino emphasized appreciation for veterans, stating, “I have a deep appreciation for the veterans, now serving and the ones who have passed on and gave us freedom.” She shared her father’s story, urging more recognition of military sacrifices with the words, “Because freedom is not free.”
Karie Angell Luc contributed this piece as a freelancer for Pioneer Press.
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