The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars work together each Memorial Day to honor our local fallen heroes and those who served the nation in times of war. The Memorial Day event begins with a parade that stretches down West Elm Street from Clinton Street to the Union Cemetery.

 

Families and guests gather along the parade route watching the Honor Guard, the Wauseon High School Band, Boy Scouts, and cars carrying dignitaries as they pass toward the cemetery. The Boy Scouts hand out American Flags and programs for the service at the cemetery.

 

When the parade ends at Union cemetery, the community gathers in the open space by the Wauseon Mausoleum.  Flags have been placed at the graves of all who served in America's wars, from the Civil War to the most recent conflicts. The stage is decorated with red white and blue bunting, and the flowers bloom around the speakers and veterans who are gathered at the front of the crowd.  The Honorable Judge James Barber and DeFord Schwall lead the ceremony that includes posting of the colors and The National Anthem played by the Wauseon Marching Band, the Pledge of Allegiance, recognition of the veterans and their service, presentation of Americanism Medals, recognition of Gold Star Mothers, recitations of "In Flanders Field" and "The Gettysburg Address,"singing by the Wauseon Chorale, the oration by the guest speaker, the "Armed Forces Salute" offered by the Wauseon Marching Band, community prayers, three volley rifle salute, and the playing of Taps.

 

After the services at the Union Cemetery, the American Legion sponsors a grilled chicken dinner at the Legion Hall.