BALTIMORE, MD—Across northeast Baltimore County and the state of Maryland, elected officials honored military families and service members over the Memorial Day weekend.
On Monday, May 26, 2025, Councilman David Marks and Delegate Ryan Nawrocki attended the Memorial Day ceremony sponsored by Gunpowder VFW and Auxiliary Post 10067.
“This is always a beautiful ceremony and we thank the members for their service and recognizing all who paid the ultimate sacrifice,” said Councilman Marks.
In Towson, Councilman Mike Ertel attended the Memorial Day ceremony at the Wayside Cross on Sunday, along with Delegate Cathi Forbes, Towson American Legion Post 22, and Towson Elks Lodge 469.
Elsewhere, Governor Wes Moore traveled to Rocky Gap Veterans Cemetery to join veterans, military families, and elected leaders for a community commemoration to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. After the ceremony, the governor laid a wreath at the gravesite of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Robert W. Hartsock. Staff Sergeant Hartsock served from 1967 to 1969 as a member of the 44th Infantry Platoon (Scout Dog), 25th Infantry Division, during the Vietnam War.
On February 23, 1969, during a surprise attack on Dầu Tiếng Base Camp, Staff Sergeant Hartsock identified an infiltrating sapper squad. Despite being heavily outnumbered, he engaged the enemy, throwing himself upon a satchel charge and absorbing the blast to protect others. Gravely wounded, he continued to fire, enabling his commander to reach safety. He died from his injuries but prevented more loss of life.
Staff Sergeant Hartsock posthumously received the Medal of Honor for gallantry and self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty and the Purple Heart for wounds received in action.
“Honoring our military heroes is not just a tradition—it’s a solemn responsibility,” said Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families Acting Secretary Ross Cohen. “These observances reflect our unwavering gratitude for those who gave everything in service to our nation and reaffirm our commitment to supporting veterans and their families every day.”
Lieutenant Governor Aruna K. Miller hosted Maryland Gold Star Mothers and Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors families at Camden Yards.
The Maryland Gold Star Mothers chapter represents the National American Gold Star Mothers organization, whose mission keeps the memory of their sons and daughters alive by helping veterans, those currently serving in the military, their families and the community. Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, known as TAPS, is a national nonprofit organization that provides compassionate care and comprehensive resources to those who are grieving a death in the military or veteran community, nationally and worldwide.
“Gold Star mothers gave the world their bravest sons and daughters—and now carry love and loss every single day,” said Lt. Governor Miller. “Their strength is unshakable, their stories live on, and their sacrifice is held in the heart of a grateful nation.”
Photos via Councilman David Marks, Councilman Mike Ertel, and the Maryland Governor’s Office
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