Marion County Republican Women
From the founding of our republic in 1776 to America's 250th birthday in 2026, generations of Marion County sons and daughters have worn the uniform and paid the ultimate price. As Ronald Reagan reminded us, freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. This tribute remembers those who fought to keep it alive, by name.
Fallen Heroes Tribute
Marion County · 1776–2026
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United States Semiquincentennial · 2026
On July 4, 2026, the United States marks two hundred fifty years since the Declaration of Independence. Marion County joins America in honoring the generations who secured that freedom, including our own fallen heroes.
We hold these truths · We remember their sacrifice
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We did not pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free. President Ronald Reagan · Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, March 30, 1961
Marion County's fallen heroes fought for that freedom. We remember them so the next generation never forgets.
Roll of Honor
These names are drawn from county memorial records, federal casualty lists, cemetery inscriptions, and verified research. We continue to add names as history is confirmed.
Marion County · Recent Sacrifice
Odin, Illinois · 13 May 2003
Patoka, Illinois · 11 April 2004
Salem, Illinois · 24 June 2009
Freedom is not free. It is purchased by the courage of those who serve and the sacrifice of those who do not return. On this 250th anniversary of American independence, Marion County remembers.