Today was a beautiful day to honor and remember the African American veterans laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery in Louisville.
Brad was honored to be invited to place a flag at the grave of Sergeant Elijah P. Marrs, a remarkable Kentuckian who escaped enslavement during the Civil War and led 27 other men to Louisville to enlist in the Union Army’s 12th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery. Following his military service, Marrs became a respected educator and Baptist minister and helped establish what would become Simmons College of Kentucky. He was also the first African American to become the President of the Republican Club of Oldham County.
The ceremony included the rendering of honors with a gun salute and heartfelt tributes to those who served our country. We are grateful to the event coordinators for their warm welcome and for their dedication to making sure these veterans are remembered. It was a truly touching experience.
There is also an ongoing need for community support.
Greenwood Cemetery is the final resting place of hundreds of African American veterans, and its upkeep depends greatly on volunteers and donations. They would love to hear from any lawn care or landscaping businesses willing to donate their time and services. Even a small contribution of mowing, trimming, or general cleanup would make a difference.
Those interested in supporting the cemetery's continued maintenance can also make donations through Stock Yards Bank: Greenwood Cemetery Community Partners Account.
These brave souls served our country and deserve to be remembered and honored. Let's work together to ensure their final resting place receives the care and respect it deserves.
