Owensboro Memorial Gardens is inviting the public to help honor fallen heroes and support local veterans ahead of Memorial Day. This year’s events will include a flag placement on May 21, as well as a food drive for veterans and the garden’s annual “A Day of Remembrance” celebration on May 25.
Glenn Taylor Sr., Chairman of Glenn Family Services, said the reason for hosting the events is simple.
“This is really about two fundamental things which, despite how we may view our world at any given moment, form the bedrock of our American conscience: honor and duty,” Taylor said. “We recognize those no longer with us who did not just that which was expected of them by our society, but expected of themselves. Whether with enthusiasm or reluctance, they did their duty. And that is worthy of our honor.”
Flag Placement
Beginning at 9 a.m. on May 21, Owensboro Memorial Gardens will host a flag placement event to help ensure every veteran resting at the gardens has a flag on their final resting place. The office will provide flags, resting place locations, and refreshments on the porch. In the case of rain or inclement weather, May 22 will serve as an alternate date.
“More than 1800 veterans are memorialized in this cemetery,” Taylor said. “It is fitting that their families and their community have this annual opportunity to honor them.”
A Day of Remembrance
The 26th annual “A Day of Remembrance” will begin at 2 p.m. on May 25. The celebration will take place at Field of Honor in Owensboro Memorial Gardens and will feature speaker Tyler Russelburg and musician Clint Campbell. Other activities include the VFW 696 Honor Guard, a salute to fallen heroes, the Community Band, singers, and a dove release.
Food Drive for Veterans
Also taking place on May 25 will be a food drive where 100% of donations will go to a local food bank that helps local veterans fighting hunger. A list of the most needed items will be posted on the Owensboro Memorial Gardens Facebook page.
