Memorial Day tribute is May 25
By Shelia Tomkins
Guttenberg area residents will pay tribute to veterans both living and dead at the community's annual Memorial Day parade and program on Monday, May 25.
The parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Guttenberg Municipal Building. All veterans, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and anyone else planning to participate in the parade should meet at the municipal building between 9:00-9:15 a.m.
Led by a police escort and color guard, the parade route will travel on Herder Street to River Park Drive, then north to the Guttenberg Area Veterans Memorial in Ingleside Park.
Veterans who are unable to walk the distance are welcome to ride in a wagon that will be furnished by Don Schmelzer Jr.
Richard Eilers, a member of Guttenberg VFW Post #11503, will serve as master of ceremonies.
This year's guest speaker will be Shane Wahls, Clayton Ridge Community School principal. The Serviceperson of the Year will be announced and will place the traditional wreath at the veterans monument.
A memorial service led by Rosalie Kickbush of the American Legion Auxiliary will pay tribute to deceased veterans. A salute to the dead will be given by a veteran firing squad, followed by Taps and the national anthem played by the Clayton Ridge High School Band.
A special presentation of Quilts of Valor to military veterans will conclude the observance.
In case of rain, the program will be held in the Clayton Ridge School gymnasium.