Honor veterans by taking part in parade

For the American Legion Field-Allen Post 148 of Windham, it is never too early to be making plans for Memorial Day.

The Post extends an open invitation to the community of Windham to support its veterans and veterans’ organizations during the May 25 Memorial Day events. Businesses, groups, organizations and individuals can provide this support by joining the town’s veterans in the parade and at the ceremony at the town of Windham Veteran’s Memorial in front of the high school.

There was a time in the not-so-distant past when the Memorial Day parade was the only parade in town. Now with the competition from Summerfest, the participation level has unfortunately subsided. The Post would like to see a turnaround in that trend. Memorial Day is a great opportunity for local community businesses, civic organizations and youth groups to show their support for Windham veterans. The Post is looking for floats, antique vehicles, marching groups etc. to come out and show their colors and support.

Last year, the Post entered a very special horse-drawn float that carried many of the town’s World War II veterans. The Post would like to honor them again this year as their numbers continue to dwindle.

Of special note, 2015 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam conflict. Field-Allen Post 148 has affiliated with the National VA Vietnam War 50th Anniversary Commemorative program and will sponsor a special tribute to our Vietnam veterans in the parade as well as at the Memorial Day ceremony and the Open House at the Windham Veterans Center. With this in mind, the Post is extending a very special invitation to Vietnam veterans in the community to join in the parade and ceremonies. Vietnam vets can contact Rodney Voisine at 400-6671 or rod.voisine@yahoo.com for m ore information. For information about participation in the parade contact Dave Tanguay at 892-1306 or dtanguay46@aol.com.

Dave Tanguay, adjutant

Field-Allen Post 148

Windham