Alan Crawford
By Alan Crawford
After the completion of a two-year project by Bud and Gary, volunteers at the Rossville Cemetery, cleaning and documenting all the grave markers, we will now begin to participate in the annual Wreaths Across America program, honoring our Veterans. This endeavor is an ongoing project. Let me explain.
Some of the older cemeteries in our Town have fallen under neglect. The old guard who cared for and maintained these hallowed grounds are fading into the mists of time and younger people have yet to step up to fill their shoes. Records are spotty at best if you can locate them. Many voices are heard giving advice on what should be done, but it takes dedicated volunteers to get things accomplished. Routine maintenance of the grounds is an ongoing affair performed by dedicated volunteers. Arm chair commandos don’t cut it.
The Rossville Cemetery Association has identified 18 Veterans, beginning with the War of 1812 and ending with Vietnam. These were the low hanging fruit since their grave markers provided their service information. We’ve included a section on our website’s Research page devoted to them.
However, to have all the names vetted in the cemetery, each name needs to be reviewed and researched to ascertain if military service is in their profile. This involves all the men and women and simply takes time. It is an ongoing process as time permits.
We welcome any information descendants and the public in general has which will enhance this research. Our desire is to see all these individuals honored. As this list is compiled and updated, we will make it available to local Veteran associations involved with flags being placed on their graves during significant remembrances. We want to set things in place for future generations to continue this work.
The expense of sponsoring a single wreath is $17. We are hoping for donations to help cover this cost at Rossville for these eighteen Veterans. If you have a family member resting there, who is included in the present list, here’s your opportunity to commemorate their service to our country. If you have a family member who was a Veteran, but not on this list, please contact us so we can include them. We welcome your input. We don’t have the exact day the wreaths will be placed. If you would like to attend, please let us know. Thanks.