By Brian M. Boyce
TERRE HAUTE — Dozens crowded around Terre Haute City Hall’s south side Saturday night in a vigil for the lost.
Flags and ribbons draped Christmas trees, and people in attendance remembered those who could not attend the 6th annual Candlelight Vigil and Christmas Tree Lighting for all Victims of Crime, Missing Persons and All Military.
“This is a great country I can’t say enough about,” organizer Merv Javins said, adding that in the worst of conditions hope remains unchanged.
Javins and his wife, Doreena, founded the vigil after their 20-year-old son, Scott, was reported missing in the spring of 2004. His whereabouts were not discovered until October 2007 when his car and remains were found in the Wabash River. “I think it’s very important we remember the good times and keep these people close to our hearts,” Javins said, describing the holidays as tough for those who’ve lost family members.
Two trees were decorated in display on the bricked terrace of city hall’s south side. The first was for the victims of crimes and those missing. The second was decorated in honor of military personnel, passed and present.
Patriotic music was played and names read aloud as representatives of Terre Haute North Vigo High School’s Jr. ROTC posted flags.
Mayor Duke Bennett said it’s important to keep the families of military personnel in mind during the holidays, as well as those struggling as victims of crime or loss.
“It’s a tough world out there,” he said, encouraging people to walk together through those times.
Brian Boyce can be reached at 812-231-4253 or brian.boyce@tribstar.com.
