PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Organizers have canceled the 2020 Portage Memorial Day Parade and an annual ceremony at Portage Veterans Memorial Park due to concerns over COVID-19.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5855 and the American Legion Post 207 have decided to call off the events this year amid the pandemic.
“We believe the cancelation of the Memorial Day Parade is the right thing to do,” said Gary Vermuelen, who coordinates the parade for VFW Post 5855. “Our members look forward to remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”
In previous years the parade has featured veterans from different eras of service riding down the route, along with law enforcement and local high school marching bands.
The parade was scheduled to begin at Southland Mall, traveling down South Westnedge Avenue before ending at Portage Cemetery where a brief service was planned at Portage Veterans Memorial Park.
Organizers say the choice to cancel the event was difficult, but believe it’s the best decision for public health.
“With the current restrictions in place during these trying times, we do not believe the Memorial Day Ceremony qualifies as an essential service. Please stay safe and follow the guidelines put into place until this pandemic has passed,” said John Green, an adjutant with the American Legion Post 207.
The City of Portage said in a released statement that it is grateful for the work done by both the VFW and American Legion every year in recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans.
City Manager Joe La Margo is encouraging residents to honor Memorial Day by displaying the American flag or wearing a red poppy, the official flower of the American Legion, on National Poppy Day, Friday, May 22nd.
