Two Great Teams Coming Together For One Cause!
Hancock County Veterans Memorial Squad
The Hancock County Memorial Squad is a 501(c)(3) organization that traces its roots to Company F of the local National Guard, which performed burial rites as early as 1947. In 1973, the rites were performed by the local veterans organizations, which rotated the duties among themselves. The memorial squad officially formed in 1987, taking over duties of military rites. The funeral service rites include seven riflemen performing the three-volley salute; a folder who takes the flag off the casket and presents it to the next of kin; with the presenter; a commander; a guard; and a recording of TAPS to close out the rites. Extra squad members are assigned flags representing service branches and POWs. Following the service, a card thanking the deceased for their service and three empty and polished shells are given to the family. This Service is free and no charge to the family of the deceased veteran.
Families looking to have rites given for a deceased’s funeral should make their intention known to the funeral home. The funeral home will then contact the memorial squad coordinator to finalize details.*
You can also call 419.306.9139 or e-mail dmckinniss@woh.rr.com for more information.
The Hancock County Taps Program
Taps, the ceremonial bugle call that signals the end of service, is played with 24 of the most powerful, meaningful musical notes for our veterans. It is a long-standing tradition that dates back to the 1860’s.
The Hancock County Leadership Class of 2023, under the founding idea and leadership of Carl Hayslett, started the Hancock County Taps program with a mission to ensure that every Hancock County veteran is honored with a live rendition of Taps at their funeral or memorial service. The Hancock County Taps Program is completely self-sustaining due to the generous donation of time from our buglers. We appreciate all of their hard work and commitment to help the program continue.
The program has a pool of talented musicians who can deliver high-quality performances of Taps on a bugle or trumpet and want to participate in this honorable military tradition! Participants are available to play for funeral services in Hancock County.
Any family member can honor a Hancock County veteran by requesting a live rendition of Taps to be played at their final service, which is provided by the Hancock County Memorial Squad. This additional service is FREE and no charge to the family of the deceased veteran.