Grateful hands needed to place flags

First widely observed on May 30, 1868 to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers, Decoration Day began the tradition of decorating graves with flowers, wreaths and flags. Now known as Memorial Day, it gives the US an opportunity as a nation to honor the memory of those who have given their lives in service to the preservation of freedom and defense of the country.

The Sheridan Veterans Committee (formerly known as the Sheridan Veterans Council) is inviting the public to join them in honoring the fallen on Memorial Day by placing flags on the graves of those who served. 

Kristina Miller, a Naval veteran and member of the Sheridan Veterans Committee, made an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse alongside Boy Scout Ian Gale to speak on events that will honor Sheridan County’s servicemembers.

The Boy Scouts of America Troop 117 volunteers their time each year to assist in placing flags. Gale said it is a time of reflection for many of them. 

Boy Scout I. Gale

The stake and flag placement will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 24 at the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. Miller said volunteers are needed to ensure stakes and flags are placed at the gravestones of all veterans resting in the cemetery. The action affords residents an opportunity to honor those who put their lives at risk and who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms of every citizen. 

K. Miller 

Beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, May 26, the 3rd Annual Memorial Day Tribute  will begin at the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery under the Kane Funeral Home tent.

Volunteers are also needed to help in the removal of the flags and stakes beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 31.

To volunteer to help with one of these events, simply arrive at the cemetery at the time and day of the event.