Memorial Day Weekend: Poppies, Parade, Patriotic Program, and Painting

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POPPIES

Memorial Day is known as “National Poppy Day.”  Wear a red poppy throughout the weekend to honor the fallen and to support the living, who have worn our Nation’s uniforms.

The red, Flanders poppy is a Nationally recognized symbol of sacrifice worn by Americans, since World War I, to honor those who served and died for our Country in all wars. It reminds Americans of the sacrifices made by our Veterans, while protecting our freedoms.

Morrison has been very generous to its Veterans and to Morrison, IL, American Legion.  Watch for Legionnaires and other volunteers throughout the town, with new Poppies for you.  A donation is appreciated.

PARADE

At 10:30 a.m., the Monday, May 25, Memorial Day Parade begins from The American Legion Post 328, 306 E. Main Street.

Veterans of all ages are invited to ride on the hay racks–provided for the last 26 years by Dave Damhoff.  There is easy access by steps built by Damhoff.  Board in front of Morrison Tire Center, 318 E. Main, by 10:00.

As usual, the parade will travel west on Main Street to the intersection with Genesee Street.  It will turn right and travel up the slight hill (“Seems a lot bigger when marching!” stated Legionnaire Jerry Brearton) to Northside School and into Grove Hill Cemetery, stopping at the Morrison Veterans Park and Memorial. 

Red, white, and blue convertibles will carry riders, including  Mayor Scott Vandermyde and the Legion’s oldest member, Bob Brands.

PROGRAM

Mark Yarbrough will provide the speaker system.  Master of Ceremonies Jim Prombo will conduct the program.  Pastor J. T.  Bean, from Ebenezer Reformed Church, will deliver the Invocation and Benediction.  Junior High students will provide music suited to the ceremony.  There will be the traditional wreath laying, rifle salute, and playing of “Taps.”

The Guest Speaker is Morrison American Legion’s Adjutant, Korey Zigler.  He recently concluded four years of military service, receiving an honorable discharge at the rank of Sergeant.  Zigler entered the U. S. Marine Corps in 2016 as a Maintenance Management Specialist, completing his initial training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego.  During his tenure, he was stationed with the 3rd. Battalion, 2nd. Marines, and later served within the Logistics System Coordination Office, of the II Marine Expeditionary Force.  He transitioned out of active duty in 2020.

PAINTING

First Presbyterian Church invites adults and youths to their annual tie-dying event.  The location is 100 E. Lincolnway, in the grassy area behind the building.  The Sunday, May 31, event takes place from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.  Pastor Rev. Dr. Mike Selburg stated, “Bring 100% cotton materials to dye, [a t-shirt], and we will supply the rest for free.  Volunteers will help teach you, if you have not tie-dyed before.”