Under bright, sunny skies, Lawrence County paused to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice both locally and across the nation on Memorial Day 2026.
A traditional remembrance ceremony took place at 11 a.m. at the Veterans Monument at the Lawrenceville City Cemetery featuring the placing of flowers and wreaths, the singing of "God Bless America" and "In Flanders Field" and a firing squad salute and the playing of Taps.
The 2026 guest speaker was 2026 Lawrenceville High School graduate Malikye Williams of Lawrenceville. Williams recently graduated combat basic training after enlisting in the U.S. Army and is following in the footsteps of his late father, who was served in the military. He also was the winner of the local "Voice of Democracy" essay contest through the Lawrenceville V.F.W.
Following the ceremony at the cemetery, the V.F.W. honored their Lawrence County Educator of the Year with the selection of Lawrence County C.E.O. program facilitator Dawn Brewer, who has headed the program for 6 years.
Three wanted people picked up by Lawrence County authorities
Three Lawrence County agencies get equipment grants
Counterfeit bills reported in southeastern Illinois
Rose appointed to state health workgroup
IDEM forecasts statewide Air Quality Action Day for Thursday
Illinois EPA takes action against Lawrenceville water superintendent
Governor Braun extends gas tax savings again
One killed in Wabash County grain bin accident
Unemployment drops in April across southeastern Illinois
Traffic stop in Lawrence County leads to multiple charges
Illinois DOT asks for public's help with expensive problem - roadside litter
Lawrence County Housing Authority announces capital and budget plans for 2026-27
Lawrence County Veterans Assistance Commission holds organizational meeting
Knox County truckers warned about county road limits
Fertilizer delivery waiver approved for drivers
Driver admits to law enforcement that she drove car into a pond
Lady softball Indians to play for regional title
