MIDDLEBURY — On Memorial Day this year, how Americans honor the more than 1 million men and women who have lost their lives defending America since the Revolutionary War will look different in many places due to safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.
With social distancing efforts in place to slow down the pandemic, the town of Middlebury and Middlebury American Legion Post 27 have announced the cancellation of the annual Memorial Day Parade. The post-parade ceremony at the Soldiers Monument also will not be held.
Tom Scanlon, Vermont American Legion – Northern Area Commander and adjutant for Post 27, said that activities in Middlebury were canceled to ensure all remain safe and healthy.
“However, on May 25, 2020, Memorial Day, let us all honor, in our own personal way, those that fell for us in battle,” Scanlon said in a statement. “Let us also pause to remember all those who have also sacrificed their lives while tending to those stricken by this invisible virus overtaking our country. They, along with all the medical and emergency service personnel, to include their supporting staff, who are working ardently through this national crisis, should remain in our thoughts and prayers.”
American Legion Post 14 in Vergennes earlier this month announced cancelation of the Memorial Day parade in the Little City — the largest parade in the state.