What started off as a one-time campaign to raise money for the World War II Memorial in Confederate Park, has transformed into an annual event aimed at reminding youth of the importance of honoring veterans.

“We started raising funds for the WWII Memorial and at the conclusion of that project, we felt like there needed to be more recognition of our veterans and of those that have served,” said Hubert Little, committee chair of the Memorial Day Celebration. “Our goal was to try to reach out to the young people in the community and to more or less educate them to the fact that the freedom that they have isn’t free.”

The 8th annual Lions Memorial Day Celebration will begin at 9:30 a.m. at Confederate Park on Monday.

The highlight of the annual event is the “Walk of Honor,” which recognizes veterans from throughout the county.

“The biggest thing is the Walk of Honor, which has a tremendous emotional impact on the veterans,” Little said. “We try to involve the Boy Scouts, and they post colors and present the military flags.”

Little said the event is really all about honoring the service and sacrifice of Butler County’s veterans.

“We tend to encourage and nurture a strong patriotic awareness throughout the community and to raise awareness that the true cost of our freedom is paid for in suffering and loss,” Little said. “They deserve that recognition, and these men and women made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Barbecue will be served at the event and handicap parking will be made available as well as carts for those who need assistance in transportation to the seating area.

For more information call Little at 334-382-6383.