Event takes place in Ira Township on May 24
By Barb Pert Templeton
It’s a unique way to honor fallen soldiers and the opportunity to do so seems to grow each year.
That’s why the Ira Township Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to host their third annual Replace Grief with Awe Ceremony at their Municipal Park on Saturday, May 24 at 10 a.m. They will be joined in their efforts by Boy Scout Troop 252 and Algonac VFW Post 3901.
Cindy Babisz, director of Ira Township Parks and Recreation, said the ceremony will be held at the Ira Municipal Park Veterans Monument.
“It is our honor to host this memorable ceremony and we hope you will take the time to come out and honor our heroes,” Babisz said.
The list of local groups participating includes:
Ira Township Parks and Recreation Department will host their third annual Replace Grief with Awe Ceremony at their Municipal Park on Saturday, May 24 at 10 a.m.
• Boy Scout Troop 252 Honor Guard will retire the flag and play taps
• Laying of Wreaths: VFW, Boy Scout Troop 252, Fraternal Order of Police and Ira Township
• Vocalist Blue Skye Riley will sing the National Anthem
• Algonac Fred Quandt VFW Post 3901 will perform military honors, including the Three Volley Salute.
• Public is welcome. Schools, Police, Fire, Ira Board of Trustees, Churches, Lions Club, Anchor Bay Chamber of Commerce, Ira Little League, Scouts and Families of our Fallen Heroes
In addition, Ira Township participates in the Blue Water Area Fallen Heroes Community Banners Project. Banners will be on display on Meldrum and Shortcut Road. The Community Banner
Program is a fund held at the Community Foundation of St Clair County and is supported principally by community members.
Blue Water Healthy Living caught up with Ira Parks and Recreation Director Cindy Babisz via email to pose a few questions about the upcoming ceremony.
The special ceremony in Ira Township will include members of Boy Scout Troop 252 and Algonac VFW Post 3901.
Blue Water Healthy Living: What is the idea behind the “Replace Grief with Awe” ceremony?
Ira Township Recreation Director Cindy Babisz: Our intention is to Honor our Fallen Heroes. Our Veterans Memorial Monument list our local Veterans Killed in Action.
BWHL: Since this is the third year how did the first two years go in terms of attendance?
Babisz: Each year we have larger attendance. Over 70 attended last year. This ceremony has been well received since we started.
BWHL: Have you added anything new this year?
Babisz: Our township representative, Trustee Tom Eder, will read the list of fallen heroes and their rank.
BWHL: When the invitation states come and “honor our heroes” who are you referring to?
Babisz: We are referring to Heros Killed in Action.
BWHL: Will there be soldiers there in uniform?
Babisz: Algonac Fred Quandt VFW Post 3901 Veterans will perform military honors, including the Three Volley Salute.
BWHL: Is the ceremony related to the Blue Water Area Fallen Heroes Banner Program?
Babisz: Yes, we are proud participants of the Blue Water Area Fallen Heroes Banner Program. Vocalist Blue Skye Riley will sing the National Anthem and Amazing Grace.
BWHL: Where are wreaths being laid in the park?
Babisz: Representatives of the VFW, Boy Scout Troop 252, Fraternal Order of Police and Ira Township will be laying wreaths at our Veterans Monument
BWHL: How long does the event last?
Babisz: Our ceremony lasts approximately one hour.
BWHL: Are there concessions or vendor booths at this event?
Babisz: There are no vendors or concessions. This is a somber event.
BWHL: Is this even held rain or shine?
Babisz: Yes, this event will be held rain or shine.
NOTE: The Short Cut Road entrance to Ira Municipal Park will be closed. Directions are for everyone to enter from the Meldrum Road entrance and park in the Municipal Lot. Visitors are d encouraged to walk over to the park and monument area if possible. This will allow for handicapped parking as close as possible to the Monument for those in need.
