SOMERSET - They died before any of us were born, but on Sunday they were remembered for their honorable service to the country.

Jacob Spohn, a soldier in the War of 1812, and Johan Adam Anspach, a Revolutionary War solider, received patriot grave markings. Special ceremonies were held at their grave sites Sunday afternoon with descendants and special guests representing the Sons of the American Revolution, the Daughters of the American Revolution and local members of the community.

Sylvia Hargrove of Zanesville has been a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution since 1979 and is now the Regent of the Muskingum Chapter of the DAR. Hargrove said she felt the ceremonies were important to the area and to the residents throughout Ohio to "thank them for their sacrifices."

"All the citizens of this country and Americans should be thankful that these men we are honoring (Sunday) gave us the freedom we have come to love and expect," Hargrove said.

State Secretary and S.E. District Chairman of the Ohio Society SAR William Anthony Robinson told the crowd of more than 100 that the men "fought for our country when it wasn't even a country yet."

"There were few cowards in those wars," Robinson told the crowd. "They were only frightened boys and men who had great ideals. Today we live in a free land due to their sacrifice."

Wreaths were placed at both grave sites followed by a musket salute from representatives of the Sons of the American Revolution and Frontiersman and a Three Volley Salute was given by members of the Somerset American Legion Post 58.

kthompson@nncogannett.com
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