HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Memorial Day ceremonies are planned Monday in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson to honor military service members who gave their lives in service to the country.
The first ceremony will begin at 9 a.m. Monday, May 25, at the Reno County Veterans Memorial in South Hutchinson. The event will include the presentation of the colors by the American Legion Riders Post 68, the national anthem performed by the Hutchinson Brass Quintet, opening remarks by BJ Birdsell, first vice commander of American Legion Post 68, and a Memorial Day address from Birdsell.
Additional parts of the ceremony will include placement of memorial wreaths, musical selections by the Hutchinson Municipal Band Brass Quintet, taps and retirement of the colors. Susan Branson, chaplain for American Legion Auxiliary Unit 68, will deliver both the opening and closing prayers. John Harlow will recognize American Legion Post 68 members who have died during the past year.
Following the South Hutchinson service, a second ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. Monday at Fairlawn Cemetery in Hutchinson.
That service will feature the American Legion Post 68 Color Guard, music from the Hutchinson Municipal Band, an armed forces medley, prayers and remarks from Branson and Birdsell, and a POW/MIA prayer. The ceremony will also include taps and presentation of the roses, along with recognition of members from both American Legion Post 68 and V.F.W. Post 1361 who have passed away in the last year.