Remembering In Bowie

Memorial Day Parade Set To Follow Annual Tradition

By Robert Bernstein // @rrb310

As the nation approaches another Memorial Day there still American Forces in Afghanistan, Iraq and now Syria. We have essentially been at war for 18 years and there have been terrible losses as children grow up without parents, husbands or wives continue without their partners and families adjust to the loss of children and siblings.

While for many this weekend represents to beginning of summer activities and family get togethers there are others that will spend their weekend at cemeteries, concerts or military bases throughout the region to mark the day. It is interesting to note that this holiday for many is not celebrated--it is commemorated.

There are many residents of Prince George's County that will see this holiday as a day of remembrance for family members who have served and paid what is called the "supreme sacrifice."

The Bowie Memorial Day Parade takes place on Saturday, May 26th at 11 a.m. The parade starts at the Bowie High School Annex building on Belair Drive and concludes at Acorn Hill Park on Stonybrook Drive. Councilman Todd Turner and other notables are expected to attend.

Residents wishing to mark this most solemn of days have many options. First, throughout the weekend consider Arlington National Cemetery to observe the "Flags - In" ceremony where American flags are placed  before the more than 200,000 gravesites by soldiers of the "Old Guard," a military unit that is considered to be an escort to the President of the United States.

On May 27, the annual National Memorial Day Concert will take place along the West Front of the US Capitol at 8 p.m.

Finally, on Monday there two events in the District - at 11 a.m., there will be a wreath laying ceremony by the President at Arlington National Cemetery followed by an event in the Arlington  Memorial Amphitheater. This will be followed by the National Memorial Day Parade along Constitution Avenue that begins at 2 p.m. All of these events are free but they are very popular so be prepared to leave early to be able to attend.

However one marks the day we should remember the extraordinary gift of those who largely went quietly in America's time of need and gave everything for this country. If you’re at a beach or barbecue, a few minutes of remembrance is in order.