The Thorp Courier, (Thorp, Clark Co., WI)

July 6, 2011, Front Page

Contact: Dolores Mohr Kenyon

Independence Day celebrated at The Highground

Part of the Independence Day celebration at The Highground the morning of July 4 was the tribute paid to the Wisconsin soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each and every one of their names was read as the ceremony attendees gathered together in a circle with Neillsville American Legion Post 73 and Loyal American Legion Post 175.  (Photo by Nancy Halterman/Clark County Press)

On the morning of Independence Day, Monday, folks gathered at The Highground Learning Center as the replica Liberty Ball tolled, signaling the start of the ceremony to celebrate the nation’s birthday. Colors were presented by the Neillsville American Legion Post 73 and Loyal American Legion Post 175. Veteran Jerry Smith gave the invocation and The Star Spangled Banner was led by volunteer Miles Voss.

Veteran Brian Barth spoke about celebrating the nation’s freedom and honoring those servicemen who keep this country free.  Herb Samme offered a moving presentation of his journey to Iraq in memory of his son, Fallen Hero L Cpl Eric A. Palmisano, USMC. As is tradition on The Highground, the names of Wisconsin soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq and Afghanistan were read.  Tim Rueth played Taps.