Baptist Health Hardin holds second annual wreath ceremony ahead of Memorial Day

ELIZABETHTOWN, KY (May 21, 2026) — Baptist Health Hardin staff, volunteers and community members gathered Thursday for the hospital’s second annual Memorial Wreath Ceremony, a tribute honoring those who gave their lives in service to the United States of America.

Originally planned near the hospital’s flagpole, the ceremony was held inside the Baptist Health Hardin Medical Pavilion due to weather. The program opened with an invocation and the national anthem, followed by the presentation of a memorial wreath and remarks honoring fallen service members.

Robert Ramey, president of Baptist Health Hardin, served as speaker and emcee for the ceremony. The program featured an invocation by Chaplain Rev. Allison Rodgers, MDiv, BCC, of the hospital’s Spiritual Care department, with music by Kaitlyn Mendoza, music therapy program director, and remarks from auxiliary member and retired Air Force Maj. Teddi Embrey.

The memorial wreath was presented by auxiliary members and veterans, retired Army Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Bond, retired Army Capt. Lance Heffer and retired Army Staff Sgt. Bryan Packard.

“This ceremony gave our hospital community a chance to pause and reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day,” said Rodgers. “It reminds us that behind every person we honor is an individual who has left a legacy of service that deserves remembrance.”

“The wreath ceremony, now in its second year, has quickly become an important tradition at Baptist Health Hardin,” said Robert Ramey, president of Baptist Health Hardin. “It gives our us an opportunity to honor those who gave their lives in service to our country, and to express our deep gratitude to all who have worn the uniform. We will never forget the sacrifice made by our fallen service members and the families who carry that loss.”