Honoring veterans in south-central Kentucky at the Aviation Heritage Park and Museum

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – This past weekend, those in the community gathered to pay homage to veterans who have died this year.

Hospice of Southern Kentucky partnered with the Aviation Heritage Park to celebrate the lives of those who have served our country. Family and friends of loved ones were able to connect with others experiencing grief.

The third annual event recognized over 90 veterans who have died within the nine local counties that hospice serves.

Devoted hospice worker, Kendra Harris, says she is hopeful this dedication will provide a sense of closure.

Harris says end of life can be a difficult time. She feels that some focus on the “chronic illness or the disease.” Harris says she believes this event sheds light on veterans, saying, “It’s a way for us to say ‘thank you’ and that we have not forgotten about you.”

The ceremony began with the singing of the National Anthem. Hospice president, Steve Jantz, and park board member, Wendell Stode, shared words of encouragement to attendees.

The 96 veterans’ names were read aloud. The playing of ‘Taps’ concluded the ceremony.

One family, who attended to pay tribute to Harold Swango, plans to continue his legacy. Tamara and Larry Snyder say Swango was a “very giving man” who was “committed to his family and his faith.” They plan to “continue his legacy” by “caring about the things he valued.”

WNKY extends its condolences to those veterans’ families.