Memorial Day program to honor veterans on May 26
By Kim Fickett
Ten new flags will be added to Akron’s Avenue of Flags during the Memorial Day program on Monday, May 26.
Albert E Hoschler Post 186 Commander Stan Rolfes announced the annual observance of Memorial Day will be commemorated with a program in the park at 10:30 a.m., on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, in Akron. In case of inclement weather, the program will be held at the Akron-Westfield School.
Prior to the program, Collin Coyle will offer a musical salute of tunes popular with American soldiers from the Revolutionary War through WWII starting at 9:30 a.m.
Rolfes said while there will be bleachers in the park, attendees are also encouraged to bring their lawn chairs.
“We encourage citizens of the community to come out as a demonstration of honor and respect to honor all of the military personnel who gave their lives in the service of our country and also to honor all of the deceased veterans of the area who served their country during wartime and peace time so that all people of our great nation could live in freedom,” said Rolfes.
Volunteers from the community are invited to help place flags at 6 a.m., Monday, May 26, and retire the flags at 4 p.m.
The American Legion Ladies Auxiliary will serve lunch in the shelter house just west of the gazebo following the program.
Rolfes encouraged all residents, and those visiting over the holiday weekend to take part in this special program.
“We would like to extend an invite for everyone to take part in these festivities,” Rolfes said. “We also would like to extend a welcome to visitors as well to share in the program and visit and renew acquaintances with community citizens.”
Those to have flags dedicated in their honor include:
- Raymond Baker, Navy, Korea
- Kervyn Heeren, Army, Korea
- Richard Huebner, Army, Vietnam
- LtCDR Robert “Pat” Klauer, Navy, Vietnam, Persian Gulf
- John Lucken, Army, Peacetime
- William Rabey, Army, Vietnam
- Eugene Rolfes, Army, Peacetime
- Maurice “Jim” Small, Army, Korea
- Kenneth Wales, Air Force, Korea
- Floyd Waterbury Jr., Marines, Korea