Observe Memorial Day in Menomonee Falls

Memorial Day is a time to commemorate those who have fallen in service to the United States.

The official celebration of these heroes began in the 1860s after the Civil War, when wreaths were laid on the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers. The practice was fully recognized throughout the existing states by 1890.

So, what is the best way to honor the holiday?

For those who prefer something traditional to honor the fallen, place wreaths or flowers at war memorials or gravesites. Menomonee Falls residents can purchase wreaths or flowers at Pick'n Save, Bank of Memories and Flowers, Bel-Aire Flower Shop, Shorewood Florist Inc., Home Depot, Neu's Hardware Gallery, Pilgrim Clock & Gift, Johnson's Nursery, and Shady Lane Greenhouse.

Many villages, towns and cities host Memorial Day parades attended by a host of community members and civic groups. You can also grab your folding chair and flag and attend the following events:

• The Village of Menomonee Falls Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at 7:30 a.m. Monday in Village Park, south of North Middle School on Garfield Drive. The ceremony includes the Honor Guard, reading of the names of those from Menomonee Falls who have been lost in military conflicts (Gold Start List), laying of a wreath at the base of the WWII Monument, Rifle Shoot and the playing of taps.
  

Mingle with friends as marching bands, fire trucks, Boy and Girl Scouts, veterans, sports teams, and police and firefighters proceed ceremoniously through the town. Don’t forget to wave your flag.

• The Menomonee Falls parade starts at 10 a.m. Monday on Harrison & Main Streets, then heads west on Main to Grand and goes down Grand to Neu's.

Other nearby activities going in the area include:

• Civil War Memorial Day ceremony

Remember, should you decide to hang a flag on Memorial Day, it should never touch the ground and it should be flown at half-mast until noon.