Cofounder Kayin McDonald Delivers Speech Celebrating High School Military Enlistees

Credit - Ashland County Pictures

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Ashland Hosts Inaugural "Our Community Salutes" Ceremony Honoring Future Servicemembers

On April 13, Ashland, Ohio, proudly joined patriotic communities nationwide by hosting its first "Our Community Salutes" (OCS) ceremony at the Mount Vernon Estate Events Center. This event honored local high school seniors who have chosen to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces after graduation, with more than 200 community members and over 30 enlistees present. Families, friends, educators, and officials gathered to support these young patriots.

Founded in 2009, OCS is a national nonprofit recognizing high school seniors enlisting in the military, a group often overlooked despite their small numbers. Bonnie Vona, a military mother and Ashland High School alumna, organized the event, fulfilling her dream of bringing it to her hometown. The event featured remarks from military leaders, the presentation of challenge coins, and performances by The Band of Flight from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Mayor Matt Miller described the ceremony as a "patriotic pep rally," highlighting the importance of honoring those who serve. The strong community support ensures that Ashland plans to make the OCS ceremony an annual tradition, with aspirations to expand it further.