Memorial Day is a time to reflect on the history of our nation and to be reminded that our freedom was not won without a sacrifice. Many lives were lost in the pursuit of independence, fighting to end slavery, and while ensuring the safety and well-being of Americans and others around the world. Even though you may not personally know someone who lost their life while in service to our nation, it is highly probable you do know someone who pledged to give their life for you and for future generations. It is also very likely that you know of a veteran who was asked to serve in a way that left him or her emotionally scarred and forever changed.
In honor of these brave men and women who gave their all, the Avenue of Flags will be put in place on Saturday, May 29 at 8:00 a.m. Volunteers are needed to assist with this project. If you wish to volunteer to help, please meet at the building in Evergreen Cemetery at 8:00 a.m.
On Monday, May 31, the Clarion Legion and the Clarion VFW will hold an in-person Memorial Day Service at 10:00 a.m. It will be at the CGD High School and will feature speaker and County VA Coordinator, Christine Oliver and CGD teacher and vocalist Tessa Yackle.
Unlike traditional years, there will NOT be a breakfast before the service due to ongoing concerns related to the pandemic. However, the Clarion Legion is having a Pancake-less Breakfast Fundraiser to make up for the loss of funds this fundraiser usually brings. These donations will go towards their scholarship programs, Boys and Girls State sponsorships and the Avenue of Flags extension project.
Volunteers are again needed to take down the Avenue of Flags. Weather permitting, the flags and poles will be removed on Wednesday, June 2 at 4:30pm.
Memorial Day is a day to pause and remember. A day to be reminded that our freedoms are precious and dependent on the courage of our young men and women. A day to give thanks for the lives of those that were lost or forever changed because of their commitment to you and me and to our country. Please join the Clarion Legion and the Clarion VFW as we honor those from the community that have perished while defending our freedoms. We hope you will attend.
Area Memorial Day services and events
Clarion
Memorial Day Events begin on Saturday, May 29 to set up the Avenue of Flags. If you wish to volunteer, please meet at the building in Evergreen Cemetery at 8:00am. Memorial Day Service will be at 10:00am on Monday, May 31, CGD High School. The tear down of the Avenue of Flags will be on Wednesday, June 2 at 4:30 p.m., weather permitting. Again, volunteers are appreciated.
Rowan
Memorial Day Services will be held at Graceland Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. The Rowan Lions will be serving their pancake breakfast before that from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the old schoolhouse in Rowan.
Other area services
Alexander Cemetery – 2:00 p.m. on May 30th
Coulter Cemetery – 2:30 p.m. on May 30th
Popejoy Cemetery – 9:00 a.m. on May 31st
Dows Cemetery – 10:30 a.m. on May 31st
