Band director, student participate in local Memorial Day observances
Benjamin Logan High School trumpet players answered the call to honor those that have served on Memorial Day, joining a national movement called “Taps Across America.”
The BLHS musicians sounded the 24 notes of Taps from their homes or at local Memorial Day ceremonies. Senior Ashley Gantt performed Taps in many of the local Benjamin Logan communities Monday morning, including Belle Center, East Liberty, Zanesfield, and Middleburg.
“It’s an important way to honor those that have fallen and is also important to those in the community,” Ashley said. “I’m proud to be able to provide this community service.”
“We wanted to make sure that all of the communities that the band typically performs in for Memorial Day were covered,” BLHS High School Band Director Myles Bowers added.
Bowers finished the day by sounding Taps in Rushsylvania and then at the Logan County Courthouse at 3 p.m.
Benjamin Logan trumpet players Davis Downing, T.J. Forsythe, and Brice Shump also performed Taps at 3 p.m.
“I’m so proud of my students and their desire to provide a service to their local community,” Bowers said.
“When we sound Taps, we listen for someone’s story in each of the 24 notes. Imagine how many stories are reflected upon at any given service.
“I’m just happy that my students and I are able to do a small part to help community members find peace, remember loved ones, and most importantly honor those that have served and made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom by furthering their legacy.”
Representatives from the Middleburg/Zane Township observation said while the Memorial Day parade was canceled for the first time in about 80 years, Middleburg residents met at the township building and drove to the cemetery for a small prayer service presented by Pastor Carolyn Christman of the Middleburg United Methodist Church.