St. Ignace Pays Tribute to Fallen Soldiers

More than 90 St. Ignace residents and veterans paid tribute to soldiers who died in service to their country Monday, May 26, in front of the War Memorial at the Mackinac County Courthouse. Coast Guard and Knights of Columbus color guards flanked veterans, speakers, and one empty chair, representing American prisoners of war and those missing in action. Honored were those who had died in the five branches of the military, including Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard. "The American soldier," veteran Mike Lehto told those assembled, "is a national story of valor, honor, and sacrifice." Pastor Earl Bercot of Faith Baptist Church of St. Ignace offered prayers. Billie Clark, past department commander for the state's Disabled American Veterans, served as master of ceremonies and, along with St. Ignace Mayor Paul Grondin, placed a remembrance wreath at the memorial.