SKOWHEGAN — The organizing committee for the Skowhegan Memorial Day parade has changed its format this year. Instead of a keynote speaker and marshals for the parade, the committee will honor locals who have served in the military and now serve at home too.

Therefore, during the service in Skowhegan Memorial Park, following the parade, individuals representing fire departments, police departments and more will be recognized.

The shift in focus is something organizers think will really hit home with people. “We see so often that those that serve in the military, continue that legacy of service when they get home,” Rev. Mark Tanner of the Federated Church, said in a news release from event organizers. “The committee felt that putting a face on service from those in our communities can be a really effective message of what it means to serve.”

The parade will follow the traditional route of lining up at 9:30 am. on Dyer Street and proceeding south on Madison Avenue at 10 a.m. The parade will travel into downtown and left onto Water street ending at Skowhegan Memorial Park,t 225 Water St., beside Skowhegan Town Hall.

The parade does use the entire roadway so travelers should be aware of a stoppage of traffic for 20-30 minutes on Monday morning.

There will be several local legislative leaders and municipal officials on hand, as well as floats and walkers in the parade including community bands, little league teams, community organizations and of course retired military personnel. If your group wants to join the parade, meet on Dyer Street at 9:30a.m.

Copy the Story Link