American flags waved along most main streets in Wood County as people gathered Monday to pay their
respects to fallen soldiers from America’s past.
Memorial Day, often seen as the official start of summer, is also recognized here as the solemn
celebration of those who died serving the nation. PHOTO BLOG
Nearly all of Wood County’s 26 municipalities held parades Monday – some long and some short. But they
all honored those who gave their lives serving the nation in times of war.
Patriotic songs rang out, and young and old got decked out in red, white and blue for the holiday.
As color guards passed, people rose from their lawn chairs and removed their hats in signs of respect to
those who served.
Aging veterans rode through the parade routes, followed by younger veterans still able to march.
Uniformed Boy and Girl Scouts joined in, waving flags and placing wreaths at soldiers’ graves. And in
some services, guns were fired in salute to the dead.
Several of the community programs featured local veterans who had served in the military.
And as is customary, many services ended with the haunting sound of "Taps" echoing through the
cemeteries.
Several communities in the county invited residents to gather for potlucks at American Legion posts
following the parades and Memorial Day services.