MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES
COMMUNITIES LIST PLANS FOR REMEMBRANCE

Alex Davis Photo Peter Rinehuls of Milesburg hangs up an American flag at his camp near Keating Summit to prepare for Memorial Day.

Most of the larger communities throughout the nation will pause on Monday for traditional Memorial Day services to recall those who have sacrificed their lives to keep America free.

As always, military organizations have been placing flags at the graves of deceased war veterans and preparing to show their appreciation to those who have fallen in service during all wars.

Memorial Day has also evolved into an opportunity for Americans everywhere to remember their loved ones who are gone, and a kick-off to the summer season.

Veterans organizations in three area communities are encouraging citizens to turn out for ceremonies on Monday:

Emporium

Elementary Principal Lynn Newcomer will discuss the range of emotions and experiences a parent endures when his child goes off to war as speaker for the Memorial Day service in Emporium.

He'll speak at the Big Flag Memorial at the west end of town after the parade, which steps off at 10 am from the Olivett's parking lot. Lance Corporal Eric Newcomer is now serving in his fifth year with the Marine Corps.

Cameron County Memorial Detail will lead the parade and later salute the fallen with three volleys, followed by "Taps."

Military veterans from throughout the county will fall in behind the memorial detail. The parade will also feature patriotic selections from the Cameron County High School Marching Band, as well as participation by youth baseball teams and other groups. Parade participants should gather starting at 9.

Rev. Gary Atkinson of the First United Methodist Church will present the invocation and benediction during the memorial service.

Coudersport

American Legion Post 192 has once again organized a Memorial Day ceremony in Coudersport. It starts with a parade stepping off at 10:30 a.m. from Water Street and progressing up Main Street to the courthouse square.

There, retired military officer Dan Stefanowich will present the keynote address. Musical selections will be presented by the Coudersport High School Marching Band and North Country Voices.

Parade participants are welcome at a luncheon which will follow at the legion post in Ladona.

A booth will be set up on the courthouse square for the sale of American flags, with proceeds to benefit the Military Veterans Honor Roll at the Coudersport Arboretum.

Austin

Austin VFW Auxiliary is organizing the Memorial Day service at that community's town square.

The ceremony begins at 11 am. Featured speaker will be Pastor John Baney.

Other participants include the Auxiliary Chorus, Austin Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts.

A luncheon will be held at the firehall following the service.