This Veterans Day, the City of Mishawaka Proudly Honors those who have Proudly Served Our Country

This Veterans Day, the City of Mishawaka proudly honors those who have served this country with the display of newly installed historical Civil War artifacts and the completion of engraved pavers at the Battell Veterans’ Memorial Plaza.

In the lobby of Mishawaka City Hall, visitors can now view an exhibit dedicated to honoring Mishawaka’s Civil War soldiers. The display includes a beautifully crafted memorial plaque, listing the names of every Mishawaka soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Civil War.

This striking wood memorial was created by Artworks Sign Company of Mishawaka. Among the artifacts is a notable piece of our history: a preserved battle flag from the Civil War era, which once belonged to Barnet Byrkit, a Mishawaka native who served in the 48th Indiana Infantry Regiment. Byrkit and his fellow soldiers served with distinction in key battles across the South and participated in General Sherman’s famous March to the Sea.

The flag was graciously donated by Byrkit’s great-granddaughter and has been carefully conserved as a tribute to the men who bravely defended the nation.

In addition to this exhibit, Mishawaka recently installed 205 new engraved pavers at the Battell Veterans’ Memorial Plaza as part of our ongoing Buy-a-Brick program. Each brick represents a commitment to honor our military men and women and helps fund the Mishawaka Troop Town initiative, which provides housing and essential support services for homeless veterans. For those interested in being part of this tribute, brick purchasing and program details are available on our website at https://mishawaka.in.gov/things-to-do/buy-a-brick-program/.

This Veterans Day, let us remember and celebrate the sacrifices of our veterans, past and present, with gratitude and respect. Mishawaka remains committed to honoring our heroes and preserving their legacy for future generations.

As we continue to honor our veterans this year, the City of Mishawaka is pleased to announce an upcoming dedication ceremony on Mishawaka Military Honor Day, Thursday, December 7th, at 10 a.m. in Mishawaka City Hall. This special event will further commemorate Mishawaka’s Pearl Harbor display and officially dedicate our new Civil War memorial displays honoring the brave Mishawaka soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Civil War.