Memorial Day Ceremony Set for Monday
Memorial Day is a federal holiday for remembering and honoring people who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The holiday, which is currently observed on the last Monday of May was previously observed on May 30, from 1868 to 1970.
With that in mind, a special Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at Veteran’s Park in downtown Carmi Monday morning. The special ceremony will get underway at 11, with a welcome presented by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3851 and American Legion Post 224.
Korean War Veterans Roscoe Templeton will offer the opening prayer of the Legion.
Mike Croghan and Steve Bell will play the National Anthem. Whip Wilson of the Local 40 and 8 will lead the pledge of allegiance.
Carmi Mayor Jeff Pollard will offer opening remarks prior to the day’s keynote speaker; Illinois V.O.D. winner Collin Sexton.
There will also be remarks form the local Elks lodge and the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Following the keynote speech, the laying of the wreaths will be done by the Legion, VFW, DAR and Legion Auxiliary.
The ceremony will conclude with the traditional three volleys, (often mistakenly called a 21 gun salute) and Taps.
Templeton will close out the event with prayer.
Memorial Day is considered the unofficial start of the summer season. It is also the day many people visit cemeteries and memorials to honor the dead, specifically to honor those who died in service of their country.
If there is inclement weather the services will be moved to the VFW dining hall.
