Bitner dedication to cap Memorial Day ceremonies

A dedication in tribute to a Greencastle solider killed in action in Afghanistan last year will be part of the Greencastle-Antrim community observance of Memorial Day.

A parade at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 28 begins the day. The ceremonies held in honor and to memorialize those veterans who have died in American’s wars are sponsored by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6319 and American Legion Post 373.

The parade will commence on East Baltimore Street at Allison Street and end at Cedar Hill Cemetery. Participants should meet on East Franklin Street by State Farm Insurance at 9:30 a.m.

The parade will include VFW and American Legion Honor Guards, Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, the Rescue Hose Company, Marion Volunteer Fire Company, classic cars and the high school and middle school bands. Others are also welcome, including antique and classic vehicles.

A memorial service will be held at the Veterans Memorial Rostrum at approximately 11 a.m., to include a 21-gun salute. Representative Todd Rock and Army Major Kyle Davis, a Greencastle native, are the guest speakers. Pastor Vic Miller will offer the invocation and benediction.

All citizens are welcome to attend and help pay tribute to American’s fallen veterans. Those attending the service at the cemetery should bring chairs. Citizens are also reminded to stand and show proper respect as the American flag passes by.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, food and refreshments will be served at the VFW and a memorial dedication ceremony will be conducted honoring Master Sgt. Benjamin F. Bitner, who was killed in action on April 23, 2011 in Afghanistan.

Greencastle and Antrim Township citizens are asked by parade organizers to fly the American flag from now through Memorial Day to demonstrate their patriotism. This will help to honor the memory of all servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

In case of inclement weather, the parade will be canceled and Memorial Day ceremonies will be conducted at VFW Post 6319 beginning at 11 a.m.