American Legion, Marine Corps Team to Honor Fallen Heroes

While Memorial Day weekend is often seen as a time to celebrate the start of summer, those with ties to the military will be spending Monday morning in a much more somber way.

Members of the American Legion, Kiltonic Post No. 72, and the Southington Marine Corps League will each travel to memorials in the community in order to lay wreaths and remember those who have died serving our country.

"This is a way to reach out and say thanks to those who made the ultimate sacrifice," said George Holyst, senior vice-commander of the American Legion. "It's a chance for us to recognize what they gave for our freedom."

Marine Corps officials said the ceremonies have become part of an annual tradition and families have appreciated the efforts.

The American Legion representatives will visit the following six sites:

7:30 a.m. - Panthorne Park
7:45 a.m. - Wonx Spring
8 a.m. - Quinnipiac
8:20 a.m. - Recreation Park
8:30 a.m. - South End Cemetery
8:35 a.m. - Immaculate Conception

The Marine Corps League will also visit other memorials including the following:

7:30 a.m. - Memorial Park
7:45 a.m. - Oak Hill Cemetery
8:05 a.m. - Holy Trinity
8:15 a.m. West Street Cemetery
8:35 a.m. - St. Thomas Cemetery

The service will end with a brief ceremony at 8:50 a.m. at Southington Care Center.

In addition to the services, a Memorial Day parade will be held in downtown Southington, stepping off from the Derynoski Elementary School at 10:30 a.m. and ending at the Southington Town Green.

A special ceremony will also be held afterwards at the American Legion, 64 Main St.