Editor’s note: The Editor photographed tribute wreaths at Morrison, IL, Grove Hills Cemetery, on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. They are on display left-to-right, representing these United States Military branches of service: Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Space Force. A separate wreath stands in memory of Prisoners of War and those still Missing in Action. The following press release was submitted by City Administrator Brian Melton.
Mayor Scott Vandermyde, in collaboration with American Legion Post 328, released the following information during this holiday season.
Spearheaded by Barry Linder, a member of American Legion Post 328 in Morrison, IL, evergreen wreaths have been installed at the Veterans Park & Memorial, to honor our Nation’s service members. An additional wreath was placed at the white cross in front of the gazebo, which bears the inscription, “Remembering the Lost.” Throughout the holiday season, we especially honor and remember all Prisoners of War and Missing in Action service members.
Lighted wreaths representing each branch of the United States military were installed in front of the stone tablets. Community members wishing to view them are invited to enter the park at the Cherry Street entrance, follow the curve to the left, and exit at the Genesee Street intersection.
Special thanks are extended to Ken Brainerd and Ed Murney for their assistance with the installation, and to the City of Morrison Public Works Department for ensuring the roadway in front of the wreaths remains clear daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.