DeKalb Veterans Memorial rededication honors local heroes

DeKALB – The latest additions to the Veterans Memorial at the DeKalb Elks Lodge were unveiled to the community during a recent rededication ceremony.

The event, hosted by U.S. Air Force veteran Michael Embrey of DeKalb in partnership with DeKalb Elks Lodge exalted ruler Jerry Evans, drew dozens.

“We’re very proud of what we’ve accomplished here in our area,” Embrey said.

Among those on hand for the ceremony were state Rep. Lance Yednock, D-Ottawa; Mayor Cohen Barnes; 4th Ward Alderman Greg Perkins; City Manager Bill Nicklas; Police Chief David Byrd; and DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau’s Brad Hoey.

I’m proud to announce that the city of DeKalb has shown exceptional dedication to its veterans, making it a true veteran-friendly community. It is not just the monuments and memorials but the everyday actions and policies that reflect this commitment.”

—  State Cmdr. of 40&8 Celeste Latham

The veterans memorial originally was dedicated around this time last year. What’s new is the donation of a U.S. Army bench by the Setchell family, a fire pit built by Eagle Scout Aidric Walters and a new brick memorial.

In July, the city received the state of Illinois Forty and Eight (40&8) Veteran Organization’s Veteran City of the Year award.

In September, the city was awarded the national Veteran City of the Year honor by the 40&8 Veteran Organization.

State Cmdr. of 40&8 Celeste Latham said she stands by the city and what it has accomplished.

“I’m proud to announce that the city of DeKalb has shown exceptional dedication to its veterans, making it a true veteran-friendly community,” Latham said. “It is not just the monuments and memorials but the everyday actions and policies that reflect this commitment.”

During the event, Barnes, a U.S. Army veteran, was presented with a special plaque and a DeKalb veteran city shirt.

He said that seeing the community’s support of this initiative speaks volumes.

“What we have here is legacy,” Barnes said. “That flag there is legacy. This memorial is legacy. But it’s also that catalyst for future generations to make sure that this country and everything we hold dear continues on into the future.”

Embrey said he was pleased with how well attended the event was.

Attendees were asked during the ceremony to come onto the plaza and stand by their brick – Army, Navy, Marine, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force.

Embrey said the end goal with having a veterans memorial rather than dedicating part of a cemetery to those who have served is simple.

“It makes it more comfortable and, I think, more focused,” Embrey said. “It’s very important that these people know where it’s at. And you couldn’t find a better location [than] right here on Annie Glidden [Road] as you come into town.”