Honoring DuPage County Veterans: A Memorial Day Tribute

The DuPage County Veterans’ Memorial stands as a tribute under the sun, casting its shadow as a massive sundial. The monument honors the sacrifices made by soldiers in past and ongoing wars. For 26 county residents who served and died in conflict from the Black Hawk War in 1832 onward, it represents a lasting legacy, especially poignant as many were under 30 at the time of their death.

Among them was U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Nicholas Larson. He joined the military after graduating high school in 2003 and was deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Tragically, he was killed at 19 during the assault on Fallujah on Nov. 9, 2004. His father, Dave Larson, attended a Memorial Day observance near the county fairgrounds, remembering his son. Wearing a dog tag with Nicholas’ photo, Dave reflected on seeing Nicholas’ peers marry and have children.

“You expect to lose grandparents, parents, but not a child. It’s brutal,” Dave expressed. He stood among white steel crosses that formed a semicircle, surrounded by artificial flowers and flags, honoring the fallen, including Navy Commander Dan Shanower, killed on Sept. 11, 2001, at the Pentagon.

Most others memorialized perished during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. Larson mentioned recent conflicts, expressing hopes for a peaceful resolution. The ongoing joint U.S.-Israel campaign has resulted in thousands of deaths in Iran and Lebanon, including 13 U.S. soldiers.

During the observance, Gold Star families gathered by flagpoles displaying the flags of the United States, Illinois, DuPage County, and the POW/MIA flag. U.S. Veteran Reserve Corps Chaplain Captain Anthony Catella gave a speech referencing iconic passages, emphasizing the enduring American quest for liberty. He cited historical conflicts beginning from 1775, underlining the continuous struggle for peace and freedom.

A ceremonial weapons salute followed, resonating across the memorial grounds, accompanied by bagpipes playing “Amazing Grace.” The county flag was lowered to raise the Gold Star service flag for the first time. The color guard concluded the ceremony, exiting with flags raised high during the Memorial Day celebration on May 24, 2026, honoring those who served and sacrificed.