On Friday, May 22, University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center hosted its 5th Annual Ceremony to Honor Our Military Fallen & Memorial Day, bringing together veterans, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and supporters to reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.
Held at UH Elyria Medical Center, the ceremony served as a solemn and meaningful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of America’s fallen service members. The event featured participation from veterans representing multiple branches of service, community leaders, and local organizations committed to supporting and remembering the military community.
The ceremony began with the posting of the colors by the VFW Post 1079 Honor Guard, followed by the National Anthem performed by United States Air Force Veteran, Elyria City Councilman, and accomplished vocalist Andrew Lipian. Lipian later performed “God Bless America,” adding a powerful and emotional musical tribute to the afternoon’s remembrance ceremony.
Remarks throughout the program reflected on the deep meaning of sacrifice and military service. Matthew Frombach, UH Elyria Medical Center Director of Operations and Army Veteran, alongside Chuck Hinchliffe, UH-EMC Facilities Director and Navy Veteran, shared reflections on the significance of service, sacrifice, and honoring those who never returned home.
A meaningful portion of the ceremony focused on the Fallen Soldier Table of Remembrance, symbolizing the memory of those who remain missing or who gave their lives in defense of freedom. Psalm 27 was read by Navy Veteran Michael Whitehead, while NEOPAT Executive Director Greg Renkas participated in the presentation of the ceremonial wreath in honor of the fallen. The ceremony concluded with a prayer in remembrance, the playing of Taps, and the dismissal of the Honor Guard.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees were reminded that Memorial Day is not simply the unofficial start of summer, but a sacred opportunity to pause, reflect, and remember the brave men and women who sacrificed everything for our freedoms. The partnership between UH Elyria Medical Center, local veterans organizations, and community leaders continues to demonstrate the importance of keeping the promise to honor and remember those who have gone before us.
NEOPAT was honored to participate in this meaningful ceremony and extends its gratitude to University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center, the VFW Post 1079 Honor Guard, all participating veterans, and every attendee who joined together in remembrance of our nation’s fallen heroes.
