By Khalida Sarwari
Memorial Day weekend has become a time for barbecues and getaways, but its true meaning is to recognize those who died while serving their country in the armed forces.
Saratogans will take time to honor veterans and current members of the U.S. military on May 27 at an annual observance day hosted by the Saratoga Foothill Club.
The event, now in its 85th year, will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Memorial Arch in Blaney Plaza and will continue on to Madronia Cemetery.
“This is Saratoga’s oldest and most venerable civic community observance,” said Anne Kolb, who is co-chairing the event along with Nancy Miller and Cynthia Chang.
The event, expected to last about an hour, will feature opening remarks and a flag ceremony at Blaney Plaza, followed by a procession down to Madronia for a performance of “Taps,” an invocation and the placement of laurel sprays upon soldiers’ graves.
“You will see the cemetery nicely decorated with flags and laurels,” said Chang.
The keynote speeches will be given by Bill Cooper and Saratoga High School senior Bennett Lopez. Mayor Jill Hunter will also say a few words, and others will share tributes and reflections and offer prayers. Members of the city council will be in attendance.
According to Chang, about 800 people attended the event last year. She said organizers are hoping more members of the community will turn out this year.
“We want to invite the entire community to come join us for this very meaningful event,” she said.
Earlier this year, the Foothill Club received a $750 community event grant from the city for this observance day, Chang said. Participating in this year’s program are the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4H Club, local church members, Redwood Middle School musicians and the Saratoga High School choir and band.
The event is free. Attendees are encouraged to park outside Madronia Cemetery.
For more information, contact Chang at 408.867.7111.
