March 29, 2024

May will be a month for Newton, Jasper County to shine

With Memorial Day coming at the end of the month, May has always been special to America’s veterans and military community. And with the large number of veterans living here it is even more special for the residents of Newton and Jasper County.

This year, the month of May will be even more special. In addition to a host of Memorial Day events planned for throughout Jasper County, there are other events focused on the veterans of our community planned for the month.

May 21, the final Jasper County Freedom Flight will depart for Washington, D.C., and will be sponsored by Newton Post 111 American Legion. There will be seven World War II veterans, 38 Korean War veterans, 81 Vietnam War veterans and 16 “Vietnam Era” veterans taking part in the flight.

A sendoff ceremony is planned for two days earlier. And, if the first few Honor Flight events have been any indication, the community will turn out in full support of these brave volunteers who served their nation with honor.

Currently, however, The Wall That Heals, a 250-foot-long replica of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C., is on display at Maytag Park in Newton. As a co-sponsor of this event, the Daily News strongly urges all members of the community to come and witness this amazing testament to one of the darkest hours of our nation’s history.

Despite the inclement weather, you are sure to come across many veterans who are there to honor the fallen. When you do, be sure to take a moment and thank them for what they have done for us all.

And, in honor of those who have served, the Daily News would like to extend its own heartfelt gratitude to the men and women who answered their nation’s call to duty.

Without their service, we would not be the shining beacon of freedom for the rest of the world.

The preceding represents the opinion of the Newton Daily News Editorial Board.