Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 6/7/2023
MONSON — Spectators started dotting the sidewalks and grassy slopes of the parade route well before the town’s annual Memorial Day procession, waiting for this town tradition to start.
Beginning at 11 a.m. with a starting off point of at the animal clinic on Main Street, the parade was led by American Legion Post 241, with the addition of Granite Valley Middle School, Monson Girl and Boy Scouts, local officials, the Police and Fire departments, and parade volunteers.
As the line made its way toward the ending point of Memorial Hall, volunteers dressed in patriotic colors scurried among the parade viewers, handing out flags for children to wave, and the Monson schools handed out stickers.
Much to the delight of the children gathered on the sidewalks, candy was liberally thrown from the marchers, and as the parade got closer to Memorial Hall, the community presence increased exponentially, with a sizable crowd gathered along the street from the town offices to the hall.
A ceremony followed the parade, with speeches, a laying of wreaths and activities honoring those remembered for their service and sacrifice. State Reps. Brian Ashe (D-Longmeadow) and Angelo Puppulo (D-Springfield) made appearances.
All guests were invited to TJ’s Tavern for hot dogs, hamburgers, and refreshments after the ceremony.