GOSHEN, Ind. — The Veterans Day ceremony in Goshen brought together veterans, families, and community leaders Monday morning at the Historic Elkhart County Courthouse in downtown Goshen. They gathered to honor those who served in defense of the nation.
Members of Goshen’s veterans organizations led the ceremony. The Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, and Disabled American Veterans each played a role. VFW Commander George Buckmaster served as master of ceremonies. Don Johnson represented the American Legion, and Jeff Gibson represented the DAV. Chaplain Wayne Hawn offered both the invocation and benediction.
Jeff Gibson and Jamie Helmuth presented the colors. The firing party delivered a three-volley salute. Charlie Stacey performed “Taps.” Mayor Gina Leichty, Police Chief Jose Miller, and Fire Chief Anthony Powell attended. Organizers also recognized Elkhart County Sheriff Jeff Siegel in absentia.
Mayor Leichty described Veterans Day as “a day of gratitude, a time to remember the sacrifices by those who answered the call to defend our freedom, and to the extraordinary courage it takes to serve.”
She reflected on the courthouse memorial and the names engraved in bronze. “We are reminded that freedom has never been free,” she said. “Every name represents a life lived with purpose, a promise kept and a legacy that endures to this day in Goshen.”
Leichty said veterans are not distant figures from history. “They are our neighbors, our colleagues, family members and friends,” she said. She thanked them for mentoring youth, volunteering, and bringing the same discipline that defined their service into civic life.
Veterans Day Ceremony in Goshen
