The tradition that began 12 years ago with the establishment of the Wrightwood Veterans Memorial will not be broken as the group that maintains the Memorial will host a “socially distanced” Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony on Monday, May 25th at 11 a.m. “The idea that a bug/virus could shut down something as important as honoring our military veterans, those who stepped forward to protect our freedoms, was unthinkable,” stated Captain Tom Pinard, Co-chair of the Memorial Day Committee.

Pinard, and Veterans Memorial President Allan Miller, rallied the Committee to come up with a scaled-back program that would keep everyone safe and comfortable but would live up to what local Veterans have come to expect. Giving inspiration, Jonathan Spray stepped up and indicated that regardless of what could be done, he would play Taps on Memorial Day in honor of those who gave their lives in defense of America.

Collette Budd of Brier Rose Design has worked with Hank Hallmark to design a wreath that will be set during the abbreviated ceremony on Monday, indicated by Miller. The ceremony will also include Pastor Dave’s meaningful Invocation and Benediction and singing of the National Anthem by Claudia Campbell. Boy Scouts will present the Colors and will also raise the National Ensign after it has been lowered at dawn in respect for the special day.

Those wishing to attend should understand that there will be no seating. Between Park and Pine, Evergreen Road will be blocked off as it is normally, and those attending will stand through the abbreviated ceremony.