Community Resilience Shines Despite Challenges: American Legion Post 25 and Northview Cemetery

In the heart of Laurens, the Northview Cemetery stands as a testament to the community’s history and the sacrifices made by its residents. Maintained by the dedicated members of American Legion Post 25, this final resting place for many local heroes has recently faced a concerning issue that threatens its serenity – household trash being dumped on the cemetery grounds.

A Positive Approach to Maintenance:

American Legion Post 25, comprised of committed individuals, has taken the responsibility of caring for Northview Cemetery’s upkeep. These unsung heroes devote their time and effort, cutting the grass, repairing fences, trimming trees, and clearing brush and debris. Steve and Debbie Landers have been instrumental in this effort, generously donating their time to assist with crucial tasks like grass cutting and weed eating, both which can be very time consuming.

In the spirit of community collaboration, Kevin Farnsworth, First Vice Commander of American Legion Post 25, expressed his thoughts on the challenges faced by Northview Cemetery. He remarked, “Northview Cemetery is a sacred space that holds the memories of our local heroes. It’s disheartening to see household trash tarnish this place of honor. However, we are resilient, and together, we can overcome this challenge. Let’s continue working hand in hand to ensure the sanctity of Northview Cemetery is preserved for future generations.”

Wreaths Across America Preparation:

As part of their ongoing commitment, the Legion members recently undertook a significant cleanup effort to prepare for the annual Wreaths Across America event. This initiative, aimed at honoring veterans by adorning their graves with wreaths, is a tradition that the Legion takes very seriously. The cemetery serves as a poignant backdrop for this meaningful event, where community members gather to pay their respects.

Challenges Faced by Northview Cemetery:

Despite the tireless efforts of American Legion Post 25 and their community partners, the cemetery has faced an unfortunate challenge. Residents in the Watt Mills area, where the cemetery is located, have been improperly disposing of household trash and debris on the sacred grounds. This disrespectful act not only tarnishes the beauty of Northview Cemetery but also reflects poorly on the community as a whole.

Call to Action:

In the face of adversity, the community can rally together to address this concern and the first part of that call to action is awareness.

Laurens Police Chief Keith Grounsell has pledged to increase patrols in the Watt Mills area, where Northview Cemetery is located. This proactive step aims to deter illegal dumping and ensure the safety and sanctity of the cemetery grounds. Chief Grounsell emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining a respectful and secure environment for the final resting place of local heroes.

Furthermore, the City of Laurens has taken a preventative measure by announcing the installation of “No Illegal Dumping” signs in the vicinity of Northview Cemetery. These signs will serve as a visual reminder for residents to uphold the dignity of the cemetery and discourage any form of improper waste disposal.

American Legion Post 25, committed to preserving the sanctity of Northview Cemetery, is also taking action. In collaboration with local authorities, the Legion will be installing cameras on the cemetery property. These surveillance measures are intended to enhance security and deter individuals from engaging in activities that compromise the integrity of the sacred space.

Kevin Farnsworth from Post 25 expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts, stating, “It’s heartening to see the city taking steps to address this issue. With increased patrols, informative signs, and the added security of cameras, we are optimistic about the future of Northview Cemetery. Together, we can ensure that this hallowed ground remains a place of honor and respect.”

The combination of increased police presence, community awareness through signage, and advanced surveillance technology reflects a united front against the challenges faced by Northview Cemetery.

By working together, the community and local authorities are taking positive steps to overcome the issue of illegal dumping, ensuring that Northview Cemetery continues to be a cherished and well-maintained memorial for generations to come.