Claremont remembers its veterans in May and always

By CHARLENE LOVETT
By Charlene Lovett

In 1999, Senator John McCain introduced legislation to designate the month of May as National Military Appreciation Month (NMAM). The passage of the legislation encouraged U.S. citizens to observe the month in a symbol of unity. Since then, it has become a time set aside to honor the current and former members of the U.S. armed forces, including those who died while serving our country. During the city council meeting on May 22, I read a proclamation in observance of NMAM.

In the proclamation, I noted Claremont’s history of military service, the service related organizations that exist in the city, and the gratitude and support that the community shows our veterans. Since the Revolutionary War, people of Claremont have participated in every conflict. The 1,800 American flags that adorn the graves in our cemeteries are visual reminders of the many who served, some making the ultimate sacrifice. The names of those who died during or from wounds sustained in the Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam are forever inscribed on the memorials in Broad Street Park.

Because of the many veterans among us, we are home to American Legion Post 29, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 808, Rolling Thunder Chapter 2 and their associated auxiliaries. These organizations not only serve their fellow veterans, but also engage the community in remembrance of the many who have served. Each year in preparation for Memorial Day weekend, members of the American Legion and its auxiliaries place flags on the graves of military personnel and in the City Center, and organize a parade that concludes with a ceremony in Broad Street Park to honor the fallen. Both members of the VFW and Rolling Thunder participate in the Memorial Day events. These time honored traditions would not exist without the efforts of these service-related organizations.

The contributions of our veterans are recognized by organizations, businesses, and residents throughout the city. Businesses such as Home Depot and Runnings provide veteran discounts. Non-profits such as the Red River Charitable Foundation partner with the Claremont MakerSpace to provide membership scholarships to veterans. Residents show their support in many ways that range from a word of gratitude to a show of solidarity alongside a parade route or at a ceremony. Volunteers maintain the gardens surrounding the memorials at Broad Street Park.

During our busy lives, NMAM provides us an opportunity to stand together in recognition of our proud military history and those who have served our nation. This year, Memorial Day is May 27. As is our tradition, there will be a parade beginning at 10 a.m. on Monday. It will conclude with a ceremony in Broad Street Park around 11 a.m. After the ceremony, the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary will host a luncheon, beginning at noon and open to the public, at Post 29.

If you are a veteran, please consider participating in the parade. Preparations for the parade begin around 9 a.m at the Claremont Middle School. All those who are participating are asked to be at the school no later than 9:30 a.m. Uniforms are not necessary and all are welcome. If you are not a veteran, please consider attending the Memorial Day events. Your presence will be most appreciated.

Charlene Lovett is the mayor of Claremont and welcomes your feedback. Please email questions, comments or concerns to her at [email protected]