Bellefontaine High School Marching Band Performs in Memorial Day Parade, Earns Special Recognition

The Bellefontaine High School Marching Band helped lead Bellefontaine’s Memorial Day observances Monday morning by performing in the annual Memorial Day Parade through downtown Bellefontaine.

Community members lined Main Street, East Sandusky Avenue, and Hayes Street as more than 120 parade entries participated in this year’s event, including

veterans organizations, local businesses, first responders, and community groups.

The 72-member BHS Marching Band performed “You’re a Grand Old Flag” during the parade route and was later recognized with a third-place patriotic entry award.

Band Director Ken Hoffman reflected on the experience and the significance of the event.
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“The Pride of the Tribe was honored to be a part of this year’s Memorial Day Parade,” Hoffman said. “We were joined one last time by most of our senior class. After the parade, the band directors treated the seniors who marched to ice cream. We hope that our contribution helped celebrate the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.”

This year’s grand marshal was Bob Thuel, who was recently named Logan County Vietnam Veteran of the Year.

Dave Crissman and Vietnam veteran Art Rausch also participated in the parade.

Following the parade, a Memorial Day ceremony was held at the Bellefontaine Cemetery to honor fallen service members.

Both Crissman and Rausch addressed attendees during the ceremony, reflecting on the sacrifices made by military personnel who gave their lives defending the nation’s freedoms.

The ceremony concluded with a wreath-laying ceremony, 21-gun salute, and the playing of Taps, performed by Lynn Fullerton and Isaac Napier.
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The event was coordinated by Samantha Jackson, with Robert Walker serving as master of ceremonies.
Parade patriotic entry awards included:

• First Place: American Veterans Group
• Second Place: City of Bellefontaine Water Department
• Third Place: Bellefontaine High School Marching Band