Two Civil War veterans buried in Colfax Township, Oceana County, were recently honored with the placement of headstones marking their graves. The new markers provide a lasting tribute to the men’s military service and help preserve their stories for future generations.
This event marked the completion of a three-year endeavor to recognize veterans within the cemetery whose markers had deteriorated and fallen to the wayside. To complete the project, no monies were drawn from township funds. Instead, the township board held events such as flea markets, pop can drives and called upon the generosity of our community to raise the funds needed to obtain and place these permanent memorials. The first is for Private Lucius Keyes, who was a member of the 4th Regiment, Michigan Cavalry Company E, and the second is Private Samuel Steele, who was a soldier in the 15th Regiment, Ohio Infantry, Company D.
Those involved with this endeavor would like to thank Jodi Slinkard, Veterans Service Officer of the Oceana County Department of Veterans Affairs, who was instrumental in procuring the memorials from the Veteran’s Administration. Without her assistance, the process would have taken much more time.
The placement of the headstones represents more than the completion of a cemetery project. It is an act of respect for two individuals who answered their country’s call during the Civil War and a reminder of the enduring value of honoring veterans.
