The City of Highland Park held its annual Memorial Day Observance in the auditorium of Highland Park High School. Displayed on the wall, the words “Dream…Believe…Achieve…” served as a backdrop to the ceremony, which started at 11 a.m. on May 25. The event included a noon barbecue in the school’s inner courtyard, where attendees enjoyed warm, sunny weather.
The Jewish War Veterans Post 29 managed the bell ceremony, an integral part of the observance. The bell was rung three times, marking the end of the ceremony. Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering emphasized the importance of the occasion, stating, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate a great community and a wonderful country.”
The ceremony included tributes to Highland Park veterans, speeches, and performances by the Highland Park High School Band. Bugle musicians performed “Taps” at the ceremony’s conclusion. Guest speakers highlighted the day, including Sonja Marie Martin, a retired U.S. Army staff sergeant, and Lieutenant Colonel Ryan M. Dunbar of the U.S. Army. Both speakers are Highland Park residents and have longstanding ties to the military.
Martin, who served from 1987 to 2008 and has lived in Highland Park since 2011, expressed her appreciation for the community. She remarked, “I really love Highland Park. The people, the area, are really great.” Martin reflected on being chosen as an honoree speaker, saying, “I’m surprised and very honored; it is an honor.”
Memorial Day in Highland Park also serves as a poignant reminder of those lost during the Independence Day parade shooting on July 4, 2022. Martin noted the community’s resilience, highlighting their unity and strength in adversity.
Linda Iovino, a member of the Highland Park High School Class of 1970 and chaplain, participated representing the American Legion Auxiliary of North Shore American Legion Post #738. Her late father, Neil P. Iovino, served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1939 to 1948 and was a prisoner of war during World War II. Iovino shared, “I have a deep appreciation for the veterans, now serving and the ones who have passed on and gave us freedom.” She added, “I wish more people would care about this country, because freedom is not free.”
This gathering, documented by Karie Angell Luc for Pioneer Press, highlighted the sense of community and respect for veterans that exists in Highland Park.