City starts campaign to honor service members

Proceeds from program will go to VFW Post Home

Memorial Day ceremonies at the Willoughby Hills Veterans Memorial Gazebo have long been a tradition.

However, with the novel coronavirus pandemic this year, there will be no ceremony led by VFW Post 4358 and the post also will be unable to conduct its annual Poppy Sale which served to supplement their income for Post Home expenses.

The post is located at 29412 White Road and serves as a gathering place for veterans and their families. The revenue earned from the meals they serve also helps to pay the Post

Home expenses.

In response, the city has started a campaign to recognize area veterans and active duty military by way of flags and markers at the city’s Veterans Memorial Gazebo. And as part of the effort, all donations will benefit VFW Post 4358.

Donors will be given a flag and marker with the service member’s and donor’s names to be displayed at Willoughby Hills Veterans Memorial this month.

“Our goal is to have as many flags out as possible,” said Gloria Majeski, the executive assistant to the mayor. “Not only will that look beautiful in our city during Memorial Day, but it represents the honor and respect we are giving our servicemen and women.”

Once the application is received, a marker will be designed to include the donor and service member information and will accompany an American flag. The flag and marker will be displayed at the gazebo during May. All money will go to the VFW Post 4358 to help with the expenses at the Post Home.

Their first set of 12 donor flags and markers went up this week, but officials hope to get many more during the month so VFW Post 4358 can benefit from it, Majeski said.

“Any effort to support this project in memory of someone who served or is currently serving would be greatly appreciated,” she added.

Those interested can make a donation of any amount (cash or check made payable to VFW Post 4358) with the application, which includes the donor’s name and address, the service member’s name (presently serving or a veteran), and the branch of service represented.

For further information, call the Mayor’s Office at Willoughby Hills City Hall at 440-918-8730.

Memorial Day ceremonies at the Willoughby Hills Veterans Memorial Gazebo have long been a tradition.

SUBMITTED Willoughby Hills is honoring veterans and service members with flags displayed at the Willoughby Hills Veterans Memorial. Proceeds are benefiting VFW Post 4358.