Mount Vernon will honor fallen service members with its annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, May 25, 2026, beginning at 10:30 a.m. in the heart of downtown.
The parade, themed “Honoring 250 Years of American Heroes,” will start at East High and George streets, travel south on South Gay Street, then east on East Vine Street, and conclude at South Park Street. Approximately 54 groups have registered to participate, with the U.S. Vietnam Veterans group Ohio Rolling Thunder serving as grand marshals for this year’s event.
Mayor Matthew Starr emphasized that the celebration coincides with the nation’s semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since America’s founding. He noted that the parade and ceremony are meant to honor generations of Americans who have served and sacrificed.
“We remember those who gave their lives for our country, and we recommit ourselves to preserving the values they fought to protect,” Starr said, underscoring the importance of reflection and gratitude.
Parade participants will follow detailed instructions, with equestrian entries exiting separately via South Park Street, East High Street, and Ringwalt Boulevard. All participants must check in between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. at designated staging areas, with horses in place by 10:00 a.m. Organizers stressed punctuality to ensure the parade begins smoothly and safely.
Following the parade, the remembrance ceremony will continue at the Knox Memorial Building, 112 E. High Street. Kevin L. Henthorn, executive director of Knox County Veterans Services, will serve as master of ceremonies. The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Commissioner George Curry, a Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient. Mount Vernon High School student Amiah McClure will sing the National Anthem, followed by wreath placements from the Gold Star Mothers, Knox County Career Center Air Force JROTC, and the Daughters of the American Revolution Lucy Knox Chapter.
The program will also feature a flag dedication led by Henthorn and remarks from Brigadier General Stephen L. Rhoads. AMVETS Post No. 95 will provide a rifle salute, and a Mount Vernon High School student will close the ceremony with a solemn performance of “Taps.”
With patriotic tributes, community participation, and heartfelt remembrance, Mount Vernon’s Memorial Day observance promises to be both a celebration of national heritage and a deeply moving tribute to sacrifice and service.
