SMETHPORT — Although the Memorial Day Parade in Smethport has been canceled, members of the American Legions Post 138 and Post 976 and VFW Post 2497 will continue to honor the dead.
Brief ceremonies consisting of lowering the flag to half mast, a gun salute and “Taps” will begin at the East Smethport Monument at 9 a.m. Monday, continuing on to the Civil War section of the Rose Hill Cemetery. Because there was no Ride of Pride this year, honors will be conducted at Vietnam Memorial in Hamlin Lake Park, then a wreath will be dropped off the Mechanic Street bridge. The ceremonies will conclude at the McKean County Courthouse.
There will be no speeches or other activities at any of these locations.
We are not encouraging attendance. However, as many residents know of these plans, we are releasing details for the safety of all. Please only attend if you can respect the health of others and our veterans by keeping the suggested 6-foot distance from others and please wear a mask.
As in the past, Veterans Affairs has placed flowers on the Courthouse steps. Because there is no parade they have asked that the flowers remain there as part of Memorial Day decorations. Beginning Tuesday, veterans may take the potted flowers as they have in the past.
