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By Paul Chasko

Memorial Day weekend in the Mon Valley was a busy one for the many veterans groups taking part in ceremonies throughout the area. In most Valley municipalities, preparations began with the placement of new flags on the graves of veterans.

Laying the wreath at the Finleyville memorial at the Community Center

On Sunday, the normal visits to the four cemeteries in the Union-Finley area where many veterans are interred began as usual at the Stone Church Cemetery. Ceremonies were also conducted at Saint Francis, Mingo Church and Finleyville Cemeteries. The conclusion of the day’s memorial services was held at the Finleyville Veteran’s Memorial at the Finleyville Community Center. A luncheon was served by American Legion Post 613 in Finleyville.

Like many other communities, Monongahela began its Memorial Day with a parade through town with many veterans groups participating. Later in the morning, there was a well-attended ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Monongahela Cemetery – over 7,500 veterans are interred at the Monongahela Cemetery.

The grassy knoll opposite the memorial stage was packed with folks listening to the various dignitaries reminding us of the sacrifices made by the veterans now interred in their home soil. Representatives of our local, county and state governments were there and listened to patriotic songs played by the Ringgold High School Band and sung by vocalists. Ceremonies were also conducted at other memorial sites throughout the Mon Valley.

Groups taking part in the parade and ceremonies included the Mon Valley Leathernecks, the Mon Valley Honor Guard, the Mon Valley Shipmates, the Ringgold High School Marching Band, and American Legion Posts 302, 949 and 613.

Click on "Gallery" for mor photos of this event by Paul Chasko.

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