The Oxford American Legion Post 1197 placed flags on graves over the weekend to honor veterans in recognition of Memorial Day, according to a May 18 statement.
This activity was carried out at cemeteries in Oxford, Alpha, and Summit Level between Woodhull and Alpha. At Summit Level, four of the five flags were placed in memory of Civil War veterans and one honored a World War I veteran. Private First Class Rutledge served with the 123rd Field Artillery Regiment, 33rd Division. The regiment was part of the Illinois National Guard and fought on the Western Front during World War I, taking part in major campaigns such as Meuse-Argonne, Somme, and Saint-Mihiel offensives.
“I was honored to command the 2nd Battalion 123rd Field Artillery Regiment, August 1999 – January 2001,” said Daniel Swanson.
Swanson has been involved in public service for several years. He was elected to the Illinois State House in 2023 to represent the state’s 71st House District, replacing previous state representative Donald L. Moffitt, according to AFSA Online.
Memorial Day events like these serve as a reminder of those who have served and sacrificed for their country.
