Memorial Day plans set for parade up Main Street and wreath-laying

With Memorial Day approaching, Marathon volunteers are finalizing plans for the village’s annual observance on Monday, May 25. Organizers say the morning will begin with a parade up Main Street, followed by a wreath-laying at the Civil War monument and a brief ceremony honoring those who died in service. The traditional route heads through the center of the village, with neighbors lining the sidewalks from the green, up to the cemetery on the hill.

Local veterans’ organizations are coordinating the observance, including the color guard and the procession to the monument. Members will also guide the wreath-laying and the moment of silence. The Marathon Central School band is expected to march and perform patriotic selections along the route and at the ceremony. As in past years, residents can anticipate a simple, respectful program that centers on remembrance; a reading of names and the sounding of Taps typically follow the wreath placement.

Volunteers are welcome in the days leading up to Memorial Day. Organizers said help is needed to place small U.S. flags at veterans’ graves in local cemeteries the weekend before the holiday, and to assist with lining Main Street with flags early on parade morning. Those who wish to pitch in can contact the village office during business hours or speak with volunteers at Peck Memorial Library to be connected with the coordinators. New, small cemetery flags are appreciated; gently used full-size flags in need of retirement may also be turned in. According to organizers, the firehall on Brink Street and the library will accept flag donations and retirements this week and next.

Parade-goers should expect brief, rolling road closures along Main Street late in the morning while units pass. Parking is limited on the route; residents are encouraged to leave extra time and to be mindful of driveways and crosswalks. Bringing a folding chair and water is a good idea, especially for those who plan to attend the ceremony at the monument.

If rain is in the forecast, organizers said the ceremony portion will move indoors to the firehall on Brink Street, with updates posted on village notice boards and at the library. Residents who fly the flag at home are reminded of the customary Memorial Day practice: the flag is lowered to half-staff until noon, then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.

Questions about volunteering or flag contributions can be directed to the village office.