Memorial Day weekend is here again, a chance to remember those U.S. servicemen and women who died in defense of the nation. Some of the observances around Emporia include:
All Veterans Memorial
The ceremony at Emporia’s All Veterans Memorial in Soden’s Grove will begin at 9:15 a.m. with music by the Emporia Municipal Band. U.S. Navy veteran Larry Timmons will be the main speaker following the opening ceremonies, including the raising of the flag and a brief prayer.
The memorial roll call will be read by Bill Gardner of the American Legion and Frank Sloat of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, followed by the placing of wreaths and flowers. Those wishing to place their flowers on the waters may do so from the rainbow bridge at that time.
After a military medley by the Sweet Adelines, Doug McGaw will read a tribute to the unknown solider, prisoners of war and soldiers missing in action. Following that, retired Col. Lee Stolfus, will read the poem “In Flanders Fields.” A firing squad and color guard will present a salute to departed soldiers, followed by “Taps and Echo,” performed by the Emporia Municipal Band.
A dozen color guards have been invited to participate.
Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery
The cemetery will be staffed today through Monday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to help families. Flowers and flags will be available for veterans. Also, the Eighth Kansas Volunteer Infantry Civil War re-enactment group will return to the cemetery at 2 p.m. Monday, marching from the patio to the Civil War flagpole. The re-enactors dedicated six new headstones at the cemetery last year.
Director Karen Cope said an Abraham Lincoln re-enactor might deliver the Gettysburg Address at the ceremony, but that had not been confirmed at press time.
Eastside Memorial Park
The Emporia Eastside Community Group will begin its annual candlelight memorial at 8 p.m. Saturday in the park. As candles are lit, participants are encouraged to say the name of the person they have chosen to remember.
The group’s annual Memorial Day weekend barbecue will begin at 11 a.m. Sunday in the park and run until about 5 or 6 p.m. The group will supply the meat, drink and activities but visitors are asked to bring a covered dish that can serve seven to 10 people. The activities will include inflatable play areas, games for the kids, a dominoes tournament, bingo and a raffle, as well as fun on the new playground equipment at the park.
Americus Cemetery
The Rev. Lee Hoskins will present an 11 a.m. Memorial Day service on Monday at the cemetery. The VFW Post 1980 color guard and firing squad will take part.