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By Paula Pyzik Scott

The Bluffton community enjoyed a mild morning of sunshine and gentle breezes for 2025 Memorial Day events hosted by the Bluffton American Legion Post 382, commemorating and honoring those who sacrificed their lives in U.S. military service.

The Bluffton Police Department and an American Legion color guard led the parade from Bluffton Town Hall, down Main St. to Grove, and down Grove to Maple Grove Cemetery near the Village limits. Legion members and Bluffton Mayor Richard Johnson with his wife Ruth were next in the parade.

Also participating were Bluffton Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts including a color guard from Troop 256. They were followed by the Bluffton High School Marching band and Bluffton Emergency Services.

Residents observed the parade throughout the route with wavies, salutes and hands on hearts.

The Memorial Day ceremonies were held at a cemetery monument "Dedicated to those who served and who are serving and will serve God and country," which was dedicated in 1966. Maple Grove was among 11 cemeteries in Richland Township that were decorated by the Legion. A total of 790 veterans' graves were marked with American flags.

Post Commander Kurt Emans led the service and Chaplain Gary Dipnarine read the names of the following men and women who have passed away and joined the Post Everlasting. A bell was sounded for each veteran.

Two fighter jets performed a flyover at about 10:15 a.m.

The Bluffton High School marching band played patriotic music during the ceremonies including the Star Spangled Banner and Taps.