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Fallen Soldiers Honored In Leon

This monument erected in memory of the soldiers and sailors of the Civil War, 1861-1865, stands in Treat Cemetery. Submitted photo

LEON — Memorial Day, a day of remembrance to those who gave their all, their lives, to guarantee our freedom, was celebrated in Leon on May 28.

The annual Memorial Day parade, organized by the town under the direction of Jackie Ellis, started the day off. Members of the Cherry Creek VFW Post 2522 and the South Dayton American Legion Post 1591 were front and center. Other groups and organizations taking part in the parade were the Leon Historical Society, South Dayton Boy Scout Troop (under the leadership of Gary Hardy), the Pine Valley Royal Tones (under the direction of Roger Chagnon), the Leon Town Board, area youngsters riding bikes decked out in red, white and blue; as well as Elizabeth and Zachary Hartwick and Katel and Summer Oakes with the Leon Historical Society.

The guest speaker was Myra Johnston, Leon Historical Society treasurer. Ms. Johnston spoke of the first settler to Leon, James Franklin, of whom she is a direct descendent.

The Leon Historical Society will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of Mr. Franklin’s settlement in Leon and its early history with a series of special programs, exhibits and events that are free to the public throughout the year. James Franklin served in the Revolutionary War. He had four sons who later served in the War of 1812.

Pine Valley Central School valedictorian Megan Stefanik read the Gettysburg Address. Following the speakers, the dedication to the fallen soldiers was recognized with the placing of the wreath, the 21 gun salute and the playing of taps. Dennis Crouse, president of the Leon Historical Society, read the rolls of area service men who lost their lives, protecting our freedoms from wars dating back to the Civil War. Local military, past and present, were also recognized.

Leon Fire Company No. 1 was on hand to ensure traffic safety, and the Cherry Creek Ambulance was present to address any medical needs.

For more information about the bicentennial celebrations, visit online at leonhisotricalsociety.webs.com, Facebook or contact Leon Town Historian Pat Bromley at brompl@lanetv.com.

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