Memorial Day parade in Lyndonville cancelled due to Covid-19 concerns
File photo by Tom Rivers: Members of the American Legion in Lyndonville ride on a trailer and wave to the crowd during the Fourth of July parade on July 4, 2015.
LYNDONVILLE – The Memorial Day parade has been cancelled in Lyndonville, Steve Goodrich, the American Legion commander for the Houseman-Tanner Post 1603, announced this morning.
Several of the American Legion Posts in Western New York have announced they are cancelling the parades on May 25 due to concerns about Covid-19.
Goodrich said the average age of the post members in Lyndonville is 83.
“I can’t in good conscience put them at risk,” Goodrich said. “I feel it is only prudent to take this action for the safety of everyone.”
News organizations in Western New York are reporting Memorial Day parades are cancelled in Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda, West Seneca, Lewiston, Lockport, Rochester and Irondequoit.
Goodrich said he has plans to recognize veterans in Lyndonville on Memorial Day. He asked community members to send him the names of local people currently serving in the military. He wants them to publicly acknowledged in the near future.
The American Legion in Lyndonville also places more than 400 flags on veterans’ graves right before Memorial Day. Goodrich said he doesn’t want the older members to be at risk with that duty. Goodrich said he will place the flags alone when he gets out of work. He said it will be a gradual process and urges the public’s understanding.
“If one is missed, I ask you notify me,” he said in a Facebook message on the Lyndonville, NY People page. “I will ensure any overlooked will receive a flag.”
