Mount Vernon is set to hold its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, May 26, beginning at 10:30 a.m. U.S. Army veteran Jim Breault, accompanied by his granddaughter Elise, will serve as the parade grand marshal.
"Memorial Day is when we pay homage to those veterans who didn’t come home. It’s not a celebration, but a day of solemn contemplation over the cost of freedom," said Mayor Matt Starr in a news release from the city. "And we don’t just mourn the passing of those who gave their lives, we thank God that they lived and had the courage to risk making that sacrifice."
According to the release, approximately 55 participants have signed up for this year's parade themed "We Honor the Fallen." The parade will commence from the intersection of East High Street and George Street, proceed south on South Gay Street, and conclude at East Vine and South Park streets. Participants are advised to check the city's website for further instructions.
The Memorial Day activities will continue at Knox Memorial Building in Mount Vernon. Kevin L. Henthorn, Executive Director of Knox County Veterans Services and a U.S. Air Force veteran, will act as master of ceremonies. George Curry, a U.S. Army Vietnam veteran with a Purple Heart, will lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Lily Mayville from Mount Vernon High School is scheduled to sing the National Anthem.
Wreath placements by Gold Star Mothers and Knox County Career Center Air Force JROTC will follow these proceedings. A special flag dedication led by Henthorn and a guest presentation by Knox County Commissioner Barry Lester (U.S. Army) are also planned.
