Memorial Day is an opportunity to remember those who have given the greatest gift possible to each and every American citizen – their dedication and lives in service of their country.
In honor of these special men and women, the following events have been planned for Memorial Day:
OXFORD ? The American Legion Walter Fraser Post #108 have set the Centennial Park ceremony to begin at 10:00 a.m. The guest speaker for the day is County Commissioner Bill Patterson.
During the ceremony, the post will introduce its newly elected officers, and the white crosses presented this past year will again be on display.
‘This year though we’re not going to read the names,? said Post Commander Lonni Esckelson, ‘but we’re planning on having a list of names available for those at the park.?
The parade will kick-off from the park around 10:30 a.m. It will travel north on M-24, turn left onto W. Burdick St. and end in the northwest side of the cemetery.
Immediately following the parade will be the flag ceremony. Members of the VFW Post #108 will lead the audience in several readings and prayer. The honor guard will then hold a 21-gun salute and taps will be played by Oxford High School band students Abby Johnson and Tony Stein.
‘Basically it’s about the same,? said Esckelson. ‘It will include all of the units from the post and everyone will be participating.?
For more information, please contact the post at 248-628-9081.
ADDISON ? The Lakeville Cemetery Auxiliary will open its third annual military memorial service with a gathering in the Lakeville Cemetery, on Drahner Rd., at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 24.
The memorial service will begin at noon and will feature speakers John Sutphin, Addison Township board trustee, and Marlene Mallia, president of the Lakeville Cemetery Auxiliary.
‘It’s a day for people to come to the cemetery, visit, see all the veterans, remember friends and family, and maybe even plant some flowers,? said Mallia.
A pot luck luncheon will follow immediately after the service in the cemetery. The auxiliary is providing paper plates, plastic-ware, hot dogs, Sloppy Joes and condiments. Those attending are asked to bring a dish to pass, their own beverages, a lawn chair and maybe even an umbrella.
‘I always say, if it’s an event I’ve planned, it’s going to rain,? laughed Mallia.
For more information, please call Mallia at 248-628-3086.