In the Merrill area, VFW Post 1638 placed grave flags on the graves of veterans in the Merrill Memorial Park and St. Francis Cemeteries to honor those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The flags will remain until the evening of June 3.
At 6 a.m. on Monday, May 27, representatives from the Post will erect large flags in the cemetery, weather permitting, in preparation for the annual Memorial Day ceremony. This year’s event will take place on Monday, May 27, at the Veteran’s Memorial in St. Francis Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, located at 2700 Thielman St. in Merrill. The Merrill City Band will make its first appearance of the 2024 season and will start playing at 10:30 a.m., followed by the ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. The concert and ceremony will feature patriotic selections, hymns, and marches. As always, “Marches of the Armed Forces” will honor the five branches of the service. This is a combined program led by VFW Post 1638 and supported by members of the American Legion, DAV, AMVETS, Auxiliaries, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and the Knights of Columbus.
This year’s keynote/featured speaker will be U.S. Marine Kevin Hermening who was held hostage by Iran for 440 days, along with 52 other American diplomats. Hermening was witness to a rescue attempt that cost the lives of eight United States servicemen.
Please join the community in helping to honor those who keep us safe and fight for our freedom. Feel free to bring a lawn chair or blanket for your family’s comfort.
In the event of inclement weather, the event will be held in the Northwoods Veterans Post Hall at 601 Johnson St. in Merrill.