Memorial Day, Monday, May 25 is fast approaching. By the direction of the Governor and the requirement of social distancing, the peninsula’s parades will not be held. But, our fallen heroes, those men and women who paid the ultimate price will still be remembered. The American Legion will have a ceremonial team of not more than 10 members who will pay appropriate honors at each of the memorials on the peninsula, this year including Edgecomb.

The Team will start at the Southport Library near Newagen at 8:30 a.m. A prayer will be said, the wreath placed, and Taps played. The team will then go to the Southport Memorial across from the Southport General Store. This will be followed by the ceremony at the Boothbay Harbor Library at 9:15 and the traditional flower spray will be thrown in the Harbor at Whale Park in honor of those who lost their lives at sea. The Boothbay ceremony by the Town Hall will start at 10 followed by the East Boothbay ceremony across from the entrance to Lobsterman’s Wharf at 10:20. This year we have added the memorial located at the Edgecomb Town Hall that will start at 11. For those who decide they want to watch these ceremonies, it is requested that they respect the requirements for social distancing and the need to wear face masks. There will be some attending but remaining in their cars. When Taps is played, they will turn on their lights as a form of salute. This is a rain or shine event.

The Legion (through its volunteers) has taken the responsibility for decorating all known veterans’ graves with flags in Boothbay, East Boothbay, and Boothbay Harbor. Unfortunately, some graves may be missed because of moved or missing markers. Those aware of any graves that need decorating should contact Legionnaire Jeff Keyes or Dave Patch at the Legion Hall 633-4487.

All individuals and businesses are encouraged to fly their flags for the Memorial Day Weekend. Remember, the flags are to be at half-mast until noon on Monday.