Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May in the United States, is dedicated to remembering and honoring the brave men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. For many Americans, it’s a time for solemn reflection and gratitude, visiting cemeteries and memorials to place flags on the graves of fallen soldiers.
It’s also the unofficial beginning of summer, with brats and beer and outdoor activities.
The Veterans Home in Silver Bay is deeply honoring service members who made the ultimate sacrifice with a significant public event on Memorial Day, May 27, at 1:30 p.m. The program is open to residents, their families and friends, and the general public. Weather permitting, the festivities will be held outside.
What was an annual tradition, the public Memorial Day event was suspended during the last few years because of the COVID pandemic. This year, the Veterans Home is hosting a public event for the first time, and there is a strong sense of community commitment to making it a success. Your presence and support are greatly appreciated.
“We need to get visitors back,” said Randall Walz, Volunteer Service Coordinator.
The American Legion Color Guard, which consists of veterans from across Lake County, will present the colors for the ceremony.
The chaplain at the Veterans Home, who is also the commander of the Two Harbors American Legion, will offer a blessing and introduce the two speakers, one representing the military tradition and one representing the families served by the Veterans Homes in Minnesota.
First to speak is Dale Hoogeveen, Past Commander of the Minnesota Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He will be followed by Dan O’Neill, the brother of a former, long-time resident of the Silver Bay Veterans Home. The program will wrap up with refreshments and a social hour. According to Walz, visitors play a crucial role in uplifting the residents’ and their families’ spirits and well-being.
Your presence on Memorial Day is a way to honor those veterans who are still with us and the good people who deliver quality care every day. A valuable asset for the City of Silver Bay and Lake County, the good people working at the home consider it an honor to provide the highest care to those who answered our nation’s call.
They’ve been at it since 1991, delivering a range of services, including skilled nursing care and specialized dementia care.
