Celebration of life, heroism of Civil War Medal of Honor recipient

On April 21, the Ceremony Committee – with the support of local Legion entities, among others – put together a day of celebration and remembrance for Seaman McHugh. A ceremony at Holy Family Church drew nearly 100 people to hear local and state politicians and others speak about the importance of never forgetting U.S. servicemembers, no matter how long ago they served. Photos by Tom Strattman.
The Illinois Patriot Guard at the Medal of Honor Dedication Ceremony for Seaman Martin McHugh in Danville, Ill.
The Illinois Patriot Guard at the Medal of Honor Dedication Ceremony for Seaman Martin McHugh in Danville, Ill.
The Illinois Patriot Guard waits outside Holy Family Church.
The Illinois Patriot Guard waits outside Holy Family Church.
Legionnaires remove their caps in respect inside the church.
Legionnaires remove their caps in respect inside the church.
The procession from the church begins.
The procession from the church begins.
The Illinois Patriot Guard gears up for the next stage of the commemoration.
The Illinois Patriot Guard gears up for the next stage of the commemoration.
Proceeding to Resurrection Cemetery.
Proceeding to Resurrection Cemetery.
Seaman McHugh’s grave, ready for its dedication.
Seaman McHugh’s grave, ready for its dedication.
A group of Civil War re-enactors – including one in 19th-century mourning attire – make their way to the gravesite.
A group of Civil War re-enactors – including one in 19th-century mourning attire – make their way to the gravesite.
One of several color guards marches in the cemetery.
One of several color guards marches in the cemetery.
An array of Patriot Guard members and Legion Riders roars onto the scene.
An array of Patriot Guard members and Legion Riders roars onto the scene.
The U.S. flag, ready for the scene of honor.
The U.S. flag, ready for the scene of honor.
Color guards representing the past and present stand together.
Color guards representing the past and present stand together.
Past National Commander Marty Conatser observes the dedication.
Past National Commander Marty Conatser observes the dedication.
Seaman Martin McHugh, in honored rest.
Seaman Martin McHugh, in honored rest.