ATHOL — A tribute in motion to honor veterans will be the centerpiece of the third annual display on the uptown common through May.
The North Quabbin Veterans Outreach will host the “We Remember …” display designed by Bonnie Benjamin and Emily Boughton. The bandstand will be decorated with hundreds of rippling ribbons Benjamin said signify how remembering the sacrifice of American veterans is “a moving thing. Just as the lives of those who have passed live in our hearts, so the red ribbons of service and sacrifice move endlessly in the wind.”
The money raised will primarily support the free breakfast for veterans and their families on Nov. 3.
Additional funds will be used to support events for veterans and their families in the community throughout the year.
In past years, Benjamin said, 100 to 120 people had been served at the breakfasts.
The display will honor those service members who have died. Individuals and organizations can make a donation to remember and honor those who have served.
On Sunday, May 27, there will be a special honor guard and ecumenical service of remembrance — led by the Rev. Beverly Prestwood-Taylor of the Athol Congregational Church — at 11:15 a.m. near the “We Remember …” display.
The Pledge of Allegiance will be recited. Local veterans will fold the American flag, while a color guard, comprised of uniformed members of the church affiliated with various military branches stands by.
“Taps” will be played. The past two years, Al Benjamin had volunteered for trumpet duty, but this year it might be carried out by either Steve Babineau or Tim Miller, according to Benjamin. The past year, “Thank You” pins were presented to veterans of the Vietnam War era.
“We try to make sure the veterans are recognized,” said Benjamin.
Citizens are invited to make donations toward the display. The names of those who make donations will be read aloud during the ceremony.
Following the service, light refreshments will be served at the church.
Donations indicating the donor’s name and the person(s) being remembered, may be mailed to: North Quabbin Veterans Outreach, c/o Athol Congregational Church, 1225 Chestnut St., Athol, MA 01331. Include your telephone number.