This last Memorial Day, while participating in ceremonies at the various Chillicothe area cemeteries, I was impressed by the number of gravestones with brass veteran’s markers. I was also surprised by the number of stones without such markers. Families should check their records to see if any family member qualifies for a marker. If any doubt exists, simply contact the VAC office on Dries Lane by Landmark in Peoria (309-681-2554) for help.

On a secondary issue, I noticed that people attending the military ceremonies were nearly all elderly/retired as were the members of the honor guard. Where are the young veterans? Amvets, VFW, and Legion Posts all need new blood. Surely anyone can find one night a month to attend a meeting. After all, a new member may provide the next great idea.

Right now, the youngest honor guard member is about 50 years old and the oldest is about 80. If Chillicothe Veteran groups are to continue graveside and holiday ceremonies, we need young veterans to step up. Will YOU do it?