SALUTE! concert returns to Columbus Municipal Airport Friday

In celebration of Memorial Day, the annual SALUTE! concert with the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic returns Friday evening to the Columbus Municipal Airport.

The concert is in its 26th year, originally a project conceived of by Harry McCawley, former associate editor at The Republic newspaper, as a way to remember veterans who have passed away. It features patriotic music and stirring moments such as the reading of letters from Bartholomew County veterans to their families back home, the firing of howitzers during the 1812 Overture and the playing of military service songs and recognition of veterans by their branch of service.

Retired Air Force Maj. Gen Mark Pillar has been part of the organizing group for about 20 years. He talks about the importance of Memorial Day.

For many years, the concerts were held in downtown Columbus at the Memorial for Veterans on the courthouse lawn. Two years ago, the concert moved to the airport due to construction at the Bartholomew County Courthouse.

Food trucks will be on hand at the Columbus Municipal Airport selling concessions starting at about 5:30 p.m. The concert will start at 7 p.m.