Memorial Day is a significant and solemn occasion in the United States, observed this Monday, where we remember and honor the courageous men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving in the U.S. military. This day allows our communities to come together and pay tribute to these heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice, protecting and preserving the freedoms we cherish today.

The historical and emotional importance of Memorial Day dates back to its origins as Decoration Day, where people decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers after the American Civil War. Evolving into Memorial Day and officially becoming a national holiday in 1971, it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who answered the call of duty, laying down their lives to defend their fellow citizens and uphold the values of freedom, justice, and democracy.

To ensure the memory of these fallen servicemen and servicewomen endures, it is crucial to commemorate Memorial Day. By actively participating in ceremonies, parades, and other commemorative events, we express our gratitude and respect for their selflessness and unwavering dedication. Memorial Day also provides an opportunity for deep reflection on the sacrifices made by these individuals and the profound impact they had on shaping our nation's history.

In line with honoring our fallen servicemen and servicewomen, the Biddeford/Saco Rotary Club, along with American Legion Post 26 and the Vietnam Veterans of America Post 1044, joined forces with fourth-grade students from Biddeford Intermediate School to place American flags on the graves of U.S. veterans at St. Joseph's Cemetery. Before their visit to the cemetery, the students received lessons on respecting veterans and proper flag etiquette, emphasizing the importance of teaching younger generations about the meaning behind Memorial Day.

Another notable Memorial Day event, organized by the Heart of Biddeford, is the annual Biddeford/Saco Memorial Day Parade, which invites our communities to unite in paying homage to our fallen heroes. The commemoration starts on Monday with an opening ceremony at Biddeford's Veterans Memorial Park at 9:45 am, followed by a parade through the streets of Biddeford and Saco. The parade unites veterans, veterans' organizations, local bands, scouting troops, and community groups. 

The closing ceremony at C.K. Burns School on Middle Street in Saco will feature a powerful address by guest speaker Mike Gibney, a U.S. Air Force veteran and the Commander of American Legion Post 26. The ceremony serves as a powerful moment for reflection and remembrance, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

 

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Attending the Memorial Day parade in Biddeford/Saco is not only an opportunity to pay respect to our fallen but also a chance to demonstrate support for veterans and their families. By participating in the parade, you contribute to a meaningful and heartfelt tribute to those who have given everything for our country.

Join the communities of Biddeford and Saco this Memorial Day in remembering and honoring the brave   and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. Be part of this cherished tradition by attending the ceremony and parade on Monday, May 29. Rain or shine, let us stand together on this day of remembrance.

Following the parade, the AmVets Post 1 in Biddeford extends an invitation to community members for a luncheon at 147 Alfred Street. For more information about the Memorial Day parade in Biddeford/Saco, visit the Heart of Biddeford website.

Liam LaFountain is a first-term City Councilor in Biddeford and a healthcare analyst at the non-profit Healthcare Purchaser Alliance. He welcomes questions, comments, and ideas and can be contacted directly at liam.lafountain@biddefordmaine.org.

The views and opinions herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints and opinions of Saco Bay News, its employees, publisher, or advertisers.