For generations, cemeteries often feature special markers for graves of military veterans.
Iola’s two cemeteries are no different.
The most common is a simple “U.S. Veteran” medallion affixed to a small aluminum post.
However, over the years, those markers, usually made of aluminum, bronze or other metal, have become prime targets for thieves.
Maggie Barnett, a member of the LaHarpe Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, counted 60 missing markers during a canvass of Iola’s Highland Cemetery. She and others hope to replace them.Barnett has been successful in getting about 10 markers, but that leaves 50 that still need to be replaced. With the cost of each pegged at $17.25, that means she needs to raise nearly $900.They’ve set an even loftier goal of $1,000. (Cash donations will be accepted as well.)
The LaHarpe VFW and Iola American Legion post are teaming up 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday for a bake sale in front of Iola Walmart.
Bake sale to fund missing markers
