RUMFORD — Officials with American Legion Post 24 will conduct two ceremonies on Sunday, Dec. 5, to recognize members of the armed forces.
The first is a Pearl Harbor recognition ceremony on Memorial Bridge between the Route 2 rotary and the downtown. The Rev. Dane Curato said a wreath will be dropped into the Androscoggin River.
Then, at 5:30 p.m. in the Legion Hall on upper Congress Street, there will be a Blue Star Service Banner ceremony to recognize 20 members of area families who are currently serving in the armed forces.
It is a tradition that was created in 1917 and resurrected by the Legion in 2001, according to a Legion memo.
Post Commander Bryan Lucas said they also hope to conduct a Gold Star Service Banner ceremony for the family of Army Pvt. Buddy McLain, but aren’t sure if the Gold Star they’ve ordered for it will arrive in time to present it.
The Gold Star Banners are displayed to show that a family member has died while serving. Each star represents one family member.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
