On Memorial Day, countless Americans in the Commonwealth and across the nation will honor the brave military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms.
Memorial Day serves as a time for reflection and remembrance, centered around American history and tradition. As many take the time to honor the fallen heroes who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, numerous events will take place in our region as well.
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Here’s a look at events happening in our area to recognize Memorial Day:
Roanoke | Veterans Council Memorial Day Ceremony
When: Monday, May 26, at 10 a.m.
Where: Salem VA Medical Center Auditorium, 1970 Roanoke Boulevard
What: The event will open with a presentation of colors. Local veteran Melissa Gaona will be the guest speaker, and the RVVC will unveil a donation to the Health Care System. The ceremony will conclude with a wreath-laying and a 21-gun salute.
Appomattox Court House NHP Memorial Day Programming
When: Monday, May 26, at 10:30 a.m.
Where: Appomattox Court House National Historical Park
What: The park will offer special programming to examine the history and traditions of Memorial Day. All programs are free and open to the public. For details on the event, visit the National Park Service website.
Rocky Mount | Franklin County Memorial Day Ceremony
When: Monday, May 26, at 11 a.m.
Where: Franklin County Veterans’ Park in Rocky Mount
What: A ceremony will be held in honor of Memorial Day, followed by a luncheon at Henry Fork Community Church. The event is free to the public.
Bedford | National D-Day Memorial Observance
When: Monday, May 26, at 11 a.m.
Where: National D-Day Memorial in Bedford
What: The National D-Day Memorial will host “The Cost of Freedom: A Memorial Day Observance.” Admission is free until noon. The memorial will feature guest speaker Cindy Parsons, who credits her son, U.S. Army Sergeant Shane Parsons, as her inspiration to do more with life. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, as seating is limited.
Buchanan | American Legion Post 93 Memorial Day Ceremony
When: Monday, May 26, at 11 a.m.
Where: Fairview Cemetery in Buchanan
What: This event will include various activities, such as a performance of the National Anthem and other musical selections by David Austin, a presentation of the colors, and a performance of Taps by a James River High School student.
Dublin | SWVA Veterans Cemetery Memorial Day Ceremony
When: Monday, May 26, at 11 a.m.
Where: Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery, 5550 Bagging Plant Road in Dublin
What: Volunteers from the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery will place American flags at each grave before the ceremony. The public is invited to attend this free event. Those interested in attending are asked to arrive by 10:30 a.m. Free parking at Dublin Park will be available, along with shuttle service to the cemetery for the ceremony.
Roanoke | Memorial Day Ceremony at Freedom Plaza
When: Monday, May 26, at 11:30 a.m.
Where: Freedom Plaza, across Church Avenue from the Municipal Building
What: The event will feature remarks from Mayor Joseph L. Cobb and Dr. Brenda Hale, followed by a ceremonial wreath-laying.
Did I miss an event? Email me at jotey@wsls.com!
