Monday the American Legion Post and Auxiliary Unit of Lincoln will be holding a special Memorial Day event to honor Veterans from around the area.

The post will launch red, white and blue balloons into the air with names of veterans in them. According to post member Tecia (pronounced Tisha) Hennessey, over 2,500 names have been entered to be launched.

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The post will also have gold balloons for soldiers who died in action and black balloons for soldiers who are missing in action.

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The Post invited out all the senior citizen homes in Lincoln to attend the event. Hennessey says they have had a lot of support from the community. She adds that youth are coming out to volunteer, and helium and water have been donated.

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Names for the balloon launch will be taken until noon on the 28th. A Memorial Day service starting at 10 and ham and bean luncheon will precede the launch. The balloon launch will take place at 1 p.m. at the American Legion in Lincoln, located 1740 5th St.

For more information, contact the Lincoln's American Legion Post at 217-732-3743.