by Matt Marquardt –
MASON CITY – A Memorial Day program is planned again this year at Elmwood Cemetery in Mason City.
The program is organized by the Mason City Veteran’s Memorial Association.
Those attending should assemble at 9:15 AM Monday morning, according to cemetery directory Randy Opheim. The program begins at 9:30 AM sharp. In case of rain, the program will be held at the VFW Post Home. The main Elmwood Cemetery entrance is on South Federal Avenue at 14th Street.
Opheim said that cemetery preparations have went “very well” and the cemetery is in fine shape. He said grave decorations are welcome to be placed on graves throughout the weekend. The cemetery is already becoming more colorful and vibrant as family and friends of the deceased have been visiting in their usual high numbers, leaving flowers and other memorials at graves all over the cemetery.
Here are some highlights for the Memorial Day program:
The Star Spangled Banner and taps will be performed by the Mason City high School Band.
The invocation and benediction will be given by Decan Brent Hamilton of Wesley Methodist Church.
Mayor Eric Bookmeyer will give the Mayor’s Proclamation.
Chris Hamlin will perform two solos.
The main address will be given by retired Major General Gary Wattnem.
Boy Scout Troop #401 will give a flag salute and Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address will be read.
After the Elmwood program is complete, another program will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery on Mason City’s west side. A police escort will be provided.
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