05 Jun Grant honors fallen veterans
In March, the David J. Nutt Fund, administered by the McPherson County Community Foundation, awarded a $9,295 grant to American Legion Post 140 to purchase 300 aluminum grave markers and flag holders for veterans buried in Elmwood Cemetery in Lindsborg.
The grave markers serve as semi-permanent identifiers, honoring those who served in the military. Their presence is especially meaningful on Memorial Day, when the cemetery is lined with flags and filled with volunteers paying tribute.
That weekend, the cemetery is transformed. Members of American Legion Post 140 place flags at each marked grave to honor the service and sacrifice of local veterans. On Memorial Day, the Legion hosts a ceremony featuring a guest speaker and a performance by the Smoky Valley High School band, which plays several patriotic selections, including each branch’s service anthem and “Amazing Grace.” Despite rain this year, the service was well attended.
For Legion member Stephan Ahlstedt, the event carries personal significance.
“I participated in the service when I was in high school, and then I did 25 years in the Army,” Ahlstedt said. “We’re just trying to keep the tradition going. They all gave up something in their lives to serve their country.”
Roger Anderson, a volunteer and son of a veteran, also spoke about the event’s impact.
“I like to be out with the guys and pay respect to the fallen veterans,” he said. “It means a lot to me.”
The Legion regularly works with volunteers to identify the graves of veterans at Elmwood Cemetery. Currently, the cemetery has nearly 500 confirmed veteran graves. The new markers ensure their service is remembered.
“The big thing is for people to see where all the veterans are,” said Legion member Daryl Johnson. “If we didn’t do this, years would pass, and we’d lose track of where those graves are.”
About David J. Nutt:
Funding for the project came from the David J. Nutt Fund for Lindsborg. Nutt’s own grave is marked with one of the aluminum identifiers.
Nutt served in the U.S. Army during World War II as part of the 395th Infantry Regiment, 99th Division. From 1943 to 1946, he served primarily in Belgium and Germany. His unit is recognized as one of the few that never gave up ground during the Battle of the Bulge.
Nutt passed away in 2016 at age 91, leaving $7.1 million to establish an endowment benefiting his hometown of Lindsborg. Since its creation, the fund has returned more than $2 million in grants to the community. Through this lasting gift, Nutt’s service and dedication to Lindsborg continue to shape and support the town for generations to come.