Memorial Day Tribute at Crown Point

Molly Sommer, living near the Historic Maplewood Cemetery, waited for the conclusion of Crown Point’s annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony before playing Amazing Grace on her bagpipes. Her tribute, a customary act each Memorial Day, honors those who lost their lives. Sommer, a second-generation piper, navigated the graves to express her respect, though neither of her military-served grandfathers is buried there.

Earlier, people gathered with chairs outside the cemetery, witnessing speeches and the parade ending from Joliet Street. After the parade, many dispersed as Sommer continued her individual tribute in the cemetery.

Post 20 Commander Kevin Dvorak delivered greetings during the tribute, where Perry McLemore provided the invocation and closing prayer. Dana and Dawn Stewart, honored as a Gold Star Family, participated in a wreath-laying ceremony, commemorating their son USMC Cpl. Ian Wesley, who died serving in 2004.

“Twenty-two years later, it’s still hard,” Dawn Stewart shared.

Crown Point Mayor Pete Land, U.S. Representative Frank J. Mrvan, and keynote speaker Stephany Leonard spoke at the gathering. Leonard, a veteran and widow of Jesse Meredith, who died by suicide due to PTSD, described her journey of understanding her loss.

“Today, one reason I share my story openly is to prevent else to feel ashamed of struggles they didn’t choose,” Leonard said. “I also want to encourage seeking support sooner.”

Leonard, who served with the U.S. Army National Guard, articulated through her personal pain that life maintains purpose despite challenges.

“As we honor sacrifices, let’s remember the human side of service — families behind uniforms, ongoing struggles post-war, and quiet daily battles. Lead with kindness. Be patient,” she expressed.

Deborah Laverty provided coverage for the Post-Tribune as a freelance reporter.