WTHR |Services remember those who gave their lives in war

Services remember those who gave their lives in war

Kevin Rader/Eyewitness News

Indianapolis - Several Memorial Day ceremonies across central Indiana paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives.

Innocence marked the day at Washington Park East Cemetery, where white roses were handed out to members of the military and to Lt. Col. Greg Ballard, who, in his capacity as mayor, read the Gettysburg Address.

"The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here," the mayor read.

Captain Tim Stoner noted his unit returned to the United States just two weeks ago after serving one year in Iraq.

"The most important metric, of course, is that 129 sons left for combat, performed daily combat operations and 129 of your sons returned home," Capt. Stoner said.

"I thank God everyday that I am still here, so thanks," said Patrick Shannon.

Bagpipers and company then all wound their way to a very special ceremonial wreath laying. Once the wreath was put into place, the ceremony was marked by the firing of the guns.

At Crown Hill Cemetery, Civil War reenactors marched and fired a rifle salute. There was also a ceremonial flyover by Blackhawk helicopters.

Names of the 22 Hoosiers who died serving their country since Memorial Day last year were all read aloud, their passing punctuated once again.