Merrill Memorial Day Ceremony Draws Hundreds to Honor Veterans

The City of Merrill hosted its 2026 Memorial Day Ceremony at the Veterans Memorial site on St Francis Xavier Cemetery grounds on Monday. Hundreds of veterans and community members gathered as the Merrill City Band opened the morning’s activities with a round of popular patriotic numbers.

The featured speaker of the day was Brigadier General Timothy Covington, and City of Merrill Mayor Steve Hass also shared his thoughts on the city’s commitment to our Veterans and remembering the sacrifice of those who laid down their lives for our freedom. Veteran and Legion Commander Jeremy Gunther gave a stirring speech based on an Earl Nightingale story focusing on what an individual would really be willing to sacrifice to accomplish their goals. Paul Kienitz led the introduction of the Memorial site’s new sound system, dedicated to highly decorated veteran Jim Henke.

Other tributes included the laying of the wreaths by the VFW Auxiliary and the Boy and Girl Scouts, the Ringing of the Bell, and the Honor Guard Guns.

Coverage for the Memorial Day Ceremony was provided by Bluejay 96.3 on our YouTube channel, WJMT TV.