On Sunday, May 24, the 7th annual Fort Sheridan National Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony took place under a clear blue sky in Lake Forest. Organized by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the event brought together service members and their families to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed their lives for freedom. It emphasized commemoration over celebration.
Stan Banash, a veteran of the United States Air Force, and his wife, Laura Banash, honored Michael Banash, a family member who served in World War II and Korea. Stan Banash shared, “I have come to this cemetery on Memorial Day every year since 1968 to visit the gravesite of my uncle, Michael Banash, a career military man who served in World War II and Korea. Today we remember, we wouldn’t have a life in a country such as this, if it wasn’t for the sacrifice made by those who served.”
The ceremony included participation from various groups, such as Libertyville VFW Post 8741, Bugles Across America, Lake Forest-Lake Bluff Community Pageants, and National Women Veterans United. Kevin Griffiths, Master of Ceremonies, remarked, “We struggle to find words to express our gratitude to the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines who died defending our way of life, a cause greater than themselves, may they find the sleep of heroes on this sacred ground.”
Rochelle Crump, a Women’s Army Corps veteran and president of National Women Veterans United, addressed the audience. She reflected on her experiences and the ongoing challenges faced by military personnel, stating, “We are here because we care, and we need to remember there are sacrifices still being made by men and by women every day, many who are still struggling.”
A collaborative effort led by Andy Barrie from Northwoods Wreaths LLC resulted in the donation of Memorial Day Planters, featuring red, white, and blue petunias, and flags, to the cemetery. Volunteers placed 82 planters at gravesites, enhancing the commemorative atmosphere. Barrie noted, “This Memorial Day effort is just a small gesture to honor the lives of our fallen heroes.”
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