Mayor Chad Frank and state representative praise veterans at Connersville dedication

Connersville Mayor Chad Frank thanked veterans and told the audience he stops strangers who wear military hats to thank them for their service. "So to each and every 1 of you out there, I stand there and say thank you for your service to our country," he said, adding that gratitude should be taught to children.

An unnamed state representative for District 55 described the Purple Heart as "1 of our nation's oldest and most respected military honors" and thanked organizers, the honor guard and volunteers. Both officials praised community participation and the volunteers who made the dedication possible.