As the summer season approaches and Monroe County families attend Memorial Day parades and barbeques, it’s important that we remember the true meaning of this holiday. Memorial Day is a time to pay tribute to the uniformed men and women who have defended our great nation and lost their lives while doing so. It is because of their dedication and selflessness that we have the freedoms and liberties we hold so dear.

The upstate village of Waterloo became the birthplace of Memorial Day in 1866 as families gathered in remembrance of their loved ones who had fallen during the Civil War. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday to honor all who have died in American wars.¹ And since then, we use the last Monday in May to fly our flags at half-staff and hold ceremonies to express our appreciation for everything the men and women in uniform have done for this nation.

As we continue the traditions of Memorial Day, we must not only honor those who have fallen, but also pay tribute to our veterans and those still serving. They have given up so much to valiantly defend our way of life. They miss everyday moments we take for granted so that we can live in peace and safety. We must also celebrate the families of these brave men and women. They, too, sacrifice so much, and it’s important that we come together as a community to support them so that they know they are not alone.

So I ask you to spend this Memorial Day remembering those fallen American’s who selflessly defended our country, and thank those who continue to do so. Events in the community include the Rochester Memorial Day Parade, which will take place on Monday, May 25, at 10:30 am. Parade forms at Alexander and East Avenue, proceeds along East Avenue to Main Street, then west on Main Street to North Plymouth Avenue. The Town of Chili Memorial Day Parade will also take place on Monday, May 25, starting at 8:00 AM on Granell Drive and ending at the Senior Center.

If you have any questions about Memorial Day events in the community, or any other issue, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at 585-244-5255 or email me at bronsonh@assembly.state.ny.us.

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