Memorial Day events canceled in, around Modesto. How you can still honor our heroes
Memorial Day observances are definitely going to be different this year, but several organizations are working to make sure that the country’s fallen heroes are honored.
The coronavirus pandemic has brought to a halt any events that would draw a large crowd. Also, many participants in the ceremonies fall into the age group of older people who are more at-risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus.
The largest Memorial Day observance in the area, at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery in Santa Nella, has been canceled. The cemetery will be open for visitors from sunrise to sunset all weekend, however, but officials are asking people not to congregate in large groups.
Because of the pandemic, everything is at a standstill, said Lupe Sierras, president of the women’s auxiliary of the local Disabled American Veterans chapter. Representatives of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars confirmed they also will not be having any observances, generally held in local cemeteries and on the Seventh Street bridge in Modesto.
American Legion Post 74 Commander Vince Araiza said the ground crews at Lakewood Cemetery in Hughson will put out flags on their own.
The national commander of the American Legion, James W. “Bill” Oxford, said in a letter to members that they could honor the fallen at home.
“I’m calling on The American Legion Family to encourage communities far and wide to pay tribute to our nation’s fallen heroes at dusk May 25, Memorial Day, by lighting candles of honor and placing them on front porches,” Oxford wrote. “Such a display will remind everyone that our resolve to honor those who served before us will continue even as social-distancing measures limit our ability to perform traditional Memorial Day remembrances.
“We must adapt and overcome the pandemic in order to pay our respects to the true meaning of Memorial Day.”
Those who do go out to visit the grave sites of military members may not find flags placed there, a job in many areas undertaken by local Boy Scouts.
Bob French, president of the Greater Yosemite Council of Boy Scouts, said government officials told them not to put the flags out this year.
“We understand that it is a protective thing,” French said. “They didn’t want any of our boys taking a chance at getting sick. And we are supportive of that.
“It’s unfortunate but it’s much better that we stay safe rather than risk the boys getting sick. So we are supportive and we hope to be back next year and look forward to doing that.”