The showcase event for this year’s Augusta Heritage Days will be a ceremony for the 100th anniversary of World War I.
According to Tay Kelsch, the event is a two-day exhibition of World War I uniforms, equipment, photos, maps and other memorabilia honoring the U.S. involvement in the war. There will be a special emphasis on the role played by military from around the local area.
A special service, which will be hosted by the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars post 9535 will be held on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at the VFW War Memorial next to the VFW hall.
The service is to honor sacrifices made by the American military.
“And to add the name of Jeremy Summers, killed in Afghanistan, to the War Memorial,” Kelsch said.
According to Kelsch, Heather French Henry, the Kentucky deputy commissioner for Veteran Affairs will speak and unveil the inscription of Summer’s name on the memorial.
A reception for the exhibit will follow in the VFW hall.
“The exhibit will be open on both Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 1 and Sept. 2 at the VFW Hall on Elizabeth Street,” Kelsch said. “Featured will be World War I displays provided by the Kentucky Department of Veteran’s Affairs from exhibitions at the Kentucky State Fair and other venues in coordination with a national effort to remember the centennial of U.S involvement during 1917-18.”
Kelsch said locals are invited to display their memorabilia, such as photos, medals, letters and other items.
Anyone interested in displaying items can contact Kelsch at 606-756-3061.
Admission to the exhibit is free.
