The Taftville Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

The Taftville Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony returns Monday, May 25, at 10 a.m., as Taftville’s American Legion Post #104 and VFW Post #2212 gather the community to honor fallen service members and remember local veterans who never returned home from war. The annual observance takes place at American Legion Memorial Field at the corner of South 2nd Avenue and South B Street next to the Knights of Columbus Hall. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will move indoors to American Legion Post #104 on Merchants Avenue.

Each year, the Taftville Memorial Day observance places special focus on a local veteran who lost their life in military service. This year’s honoree is Herman A. Duhaime, who was listed as Missing In Action on December 2, 1950, during the Korean War before later being declared deceased in 1954. Family members of Duhaime are expected to attend this year’s ceremony, adding a deeply personal connection to the morning’s remembrance and tribute.

The annual gathering remains one of Taftville’s most meaningful Memorial Day traditions, bringing veterans organizations, local families, and community members together in reflection and gratitude. While many Memorial Day events carry a celebratory hometown atmosphere, the Taftville ceremony keeps the focus firmly on honoring sacrifice, preserving memory, and recognizing those from the community who never made it home.