PICKAWAY COUNTY, OH — Memorial Day, observed on Monday, May 26, 2025, will bring communities across the U.S., including Pickaway County, together to honor and remember the men and women who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. This solemn holiday, originally known as Decoration Day, emerged after the Civil War when citizens began decorating the graves of fallen soldiers. It serves as a time for reflection, remembrance, and mourning for those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Traditionally, Americans mark the day by visiting cemeteries and memorials, participating in parades, and gathering with family. In Pickaway County, a series of events are scheduled to pay tribute to the fallen.
The day begins at 8:00 AM at High Street Cemetery, where Lieutenant Colonel Patty Hamilton will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Oceana Wallis will perform the National Anthem, followed by Staff Sergeant William Hamilton and Airman First Class Richard Hamilton lowering the National Colors to half-staff. Lieutenant Colonel Jim Sizemore will lead the Invocation, Sergeant Major Charles Hamilton will lead the Pledge of Allegiance, and Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Larry Stiles will deliver the guest address.
At 9:00 AM, the Memorial Day Parade will kick off at the intersection of High Street and Pickaway Street, proceeding west on High Street and turning right onto North Court Street, heading north to Forest Cemetery. The parade is expected to draw local residents to honor the occasion.
At 10:00 AM, ceremonies will continue at Forest Cemetery, with Jack Mader as Master of Ceremonies. The Circleville High School Band will play the National Anthem, and Staff Sergeant William Hamilton and Airman First Class Richard Hamilton will again lower the colors. Lieutenant Colonel Jim Sizemore will lead the Invocation, Chief Warrant Officer Glenn Easterday will lead the Pledge of Allegiance, and Colonel Andrew Aquino will serve as the guest speaker.
The day’s events conclude at 11:30 AM at Hitler-Ludwig Cemetery, located at 1819 Hitler Road in Washington Township. Chief Warrant Officer Glenn Easterday will act as Master of Ceremonies, with Dr. Jimmy Laux singing the National Anthem, accompanied by the Logan Elm High School Band. Staff Sergeant William Hamilton and Airman First Class Richard Hamilton will lower the colors, Lieutenant Colonel Jim Sizemore will lead the Invocation, Lieutenant Colonel Patty Hamilton will lead the Pledge of Allegiance, and Chaplain Lieutenant Colonel Larry Stiles will deliver the guest address.
These ceremonies reflect the community’s commitment to honoring the sacrifices of military personnel.
