Originally called “Decoration Day”, Memorial Day is a holiday for remembering all who have died in service to our country, in addition to those who are still serving today. For over 93 years, Cedar Memorial has honored this holiday. Each year, we host two events to commemorate our veterans—Avenue of Flags and Memorial Day Tribute Ceremony.
Drive Through our Avenue of Flags
Every Memorial Day, over 1,500 American flags line the cemetery and the graves of each veteran that is laid to rest in Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. These flags are donated by the families of veterans and generously placed by volunteers, including the group Honoring Our Veterans.; The flags stay in place over Memorial Day weekend and are removed by volunteers later.
This year, volunteers will begin placing flags at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 28. The public is free to drive through the park at any time to view the flags. They will begin removing them at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, May 31. All volunteers are welcome. Upon arrival, turn right into the park and gather in front of the Family Center.
Family Traditions at our Annual Tribute
Beginning at 11 a.m. on Memorial Day, the community is invited to join friends and family at our Memorial Day Tribute Ceremony. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy live music from Harmony Hawks, flag presentation and rifle volley from the United States Army, live taps, and words from a featured speaker. This is a family event, meant to honor veterans, promote tradition, and bring the community together.
This year’s featured speaker is Gene Peterson. As a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, and having served in the Vietnam War, Gene speaks confidently about the service of the men and women who defend our country—past, present, and future.
Today, Gene and his wife, Sherry, are heavily involved with the
Quilts of Valor Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting healing for veterans.
We hope to see you there!