On Memorial Day in Mattoon, Post #287 starts the parade being out in front. As the parade Proceeds, the American Legion Post heads out right away to Woodlawn Cemetery preparing for the Memorial Program by the grave of the founder of Post #287, John Owens. We have different speakers of different wars, positions in life that the people listen with interest. We're a small community, which some may not think is important when it comes to bigger organizations. But what the Legion does at these ceremonies brings out the Patriotic feelings of the Mattoon citizens. They listen quietly and will place their hands over their hearts in respect. It's in memory of those that gave the ultimate. And a time for the community to show their respect in remembrance. After all the ceremonies, there is a community picnic held for all that wish to attend. The whole town falls out in respect and remembrance of Memorial Day. The pictures of the hands over the heart say it all. This year during the parade, an older gentleman in his Marine Dress Blues stepped out in front of the American Legion marching at the beginning of the parade and gave his personal salute in honor of all those that gave the ultimate sacrifice. Then before we could find out whom he was, he left once more before anyone got to speak to him. It was an honor to see that type of patriotism shared.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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