Mission:
Ohio Western Reserve Ladies is a group of volunteers who attend services at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio. The group was established in 2022.
These community volunteers may be veterans themselves, family, friends, or loved ones of Marine, Navy, Army, Air Force, or Coast Guard service members. After recognizing a need in our community to honor OWRNC burials of veterans with little or no family, the group pledges to ensure that no veteran will be buried alone. The group was modeled after the Arlington Ladies of Arlington National Cemetery, established in 1948 with this exact mission.
Goals:
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Ensure No Veteran Is Buried Alone:
Provide presence, honor, and dignity at every service at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery through the quiet strength of our volunteers. -
Preserve and Teach Legacy:
Educate the community about the traditions, history, and significance of military honors, ensuring future generations understand the value of service and sacrifice. -
Strengthen Community Connections:
Build partnerships with veteran organizations, schools, civic groups, and local leaders to increase awareness and engagement in honoring our nation’s heroes. -
Support Families and Volunteers:
Serve as a compassionate network for families of the fallen and provide meaningful opportunities for volunteers to continue serving through acts of remembrance. -
Sustain the Mission:
Grow the organization responsibly through fundraising, outreach, and leadership development to ensure that the OWRL mission endures for generations to come.