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Legion Undertakes Cemetery Program: Memorial Day Service Schedule

    Cemeteries throughout the area are flying flags over veterans’ graves this week.  A project of Umatilla’s American Legion Post 21, volunteers have placed over 600 flag holders and flags in five cemeteries in time for Memorial Day, with the Altoona/Hinson cemetery, Grand Island Cemetery, the Umatilla and Umatilla/Glendale cemeteries, as well as the Paisley/Ponceannah cemetery all seeing veterans graves marked.
    The program was directed by post 21 commander Robert Ragin, with a team of volunteers undertaking the work.
    “New flag holders and flags were placed by Post members Everett Kinnney, Wit Livingston, and Carl Lee,” said Lee this week.
    “While at the Umatilla Cemetery,” Lee added, “Carly Ritter, a family member of a deceased veteran, was bringing flowers to their loved one and told us how much she appreciated what the American Legion was doing for our fallen veterans.”
    The flag holders were custom-made by Legion members and will remain in place for future flag-placing efforts.

    Monday, May 25, will see Lake County host several special events marking Memorial Day. From Astor to Mount Dora, North Lake will see at least three special ceremonies held remembering those who gave their lives in military service to the nation.
    Here’s a listing of events announced by press deadline this week:
    •   A.W. Peterson Gun Shop - 6:30 a.m.:  Hosted by the Lake County Historical Society and shop owner Carey Baker, this annual sunrise event will feature speeches from Baker, Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks,  and Lake County Commission Chair Leslie Campione, an invocation from Joshua Douglas, the National Anthem, and Taps performed by A.J. Rohe.  In addition, a flag retirement ceremony is scheduled and conducted by Boy Scout Troops 43 and 4043.
    A.W. Peterson Gun Shop is located at 4255 West Old Hwy. 441 in Mount Dora.
    • Astor Cemetery - 10 a.m.: Hosted by the Astor VFW Post 9986, this event will include an Honor Guard, Gun Salute, Laying of a Wreath, singing of God Bless America and the Star Spangled Banner performed by Christie King, and more.  Cemetery is located on SR 40 between Astor and Astor Park. After the event, refreshments available at the VFW post on Veterans Drive in Astor.
    • McTureous Memorial in Altoona - 10 a.m.:  Hosted by Umatilla American Legion Post 21 and the Umatilla High School JROTC, event will include singing, special events, a performance by the Lakeview Terrace choir, and a featured speech from veteran Linda Every. The memorial is located on SR 19 in Altoona just north of the Altoona Post Office.