Memorial Day 2024 ceremonies in Staunton, Augusta County and Waynesboro

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day, and offers an opportunity to commemorate U.S. service members who died while on active duty. The federal holiday set for the last Monday of May was first enacted following the Civil War, and was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

Here are the ceremonies this Memorial Day in Staunton, Augusta County and Waynesboro.

Annual Memorial Day ceremony in Gypsy Hill Park

• 9:30 a.m. Stonewall Brigade Band music begins
• 10 a.m. Ceremony begins at the gazebo

"Our program is conducted with Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Post members as well as other patriotic organizations," the program invitation said.

In the event of inclement weather, the program will happen at the American Legion Post on 357 Cedar Green Road in Staunton.

Traditional Memorial Day at Staunton National Cemetery

• 1:30-2 p.m. Thursday, May 30
• Staunton National Cemetery
• 901 Richmond Road, Staunton
• Hosted by Jay Rarick, Department of the Chesapeake, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War

"The Department of the Chesapeake, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, will conduct a Decoration Day Service with wreath placing and reading of MG Logan's General Order No. 11 to the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.)," the program event said.

Park nearby as parking in the National Cemetery is extremely limited.

Join Us in Remembrance: American Legion Post 340 Memorial Day Commemoration Ceremony

• 11 a.m. Monday, May 27
• Riverview Cemetery
• 420 Rosser Ave., Waynesboro

"As Memorial Day approaches, American Legion Post 340 extends a heartfelt invitation to all to join in honoring the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country," the program event said.

"The post will host its annual Memorial Day commemoration ceremony at Riverview Cemetery uniting the community in a solemn tribute to America's fallen heroes.

"The ceremony promises to be a poignant and dignified event, featuring a series of heartfelt tributes, patriotic displays and moments of reflection. Veterans, dignitaries and members of the community will gather to pay homage to the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to the nation.

"The program will include stirring speeches by distinguished guests, sharing stories of courage, sacrifice and the enduring legacy of America's fallen heroes.

"A solemn wreath-laying ceremony will serve as the centerpiece of the event, providing a poignant moment for reflection and remembrance. Wreaths representing various American wars will be laid in honor of the fallen.

"Throughout the ceremony, the somber strains of 'Taps' will echo across the grounds, serving as a poignant reminder of the price of freedom and the debt owed to those who gave their lives in its defense.

"American Legion Post 340 invites all members of the community to join in this solemn commemoration of Memorial Day. Whether you are a veteran, a family member of a fallen hero, or simply a grateful citizen, your presence is a testament to the enduring spirit of remembrance and gratitude that defines this solemn occasion."

Memorial Day Service: Remember and Honor

• 2-3 p.m. Monday, May 27
• Community Building and War Memorial, Craigsville

From 2-3 p.m. refreshments will be served at the Community Building. At 3 p.m. the Memorial Service will be held at the War Memorial.

Come join the community to honor and remember our veterans.

Memorial Day Weekend: Rebellions & Revolutions

• 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 25
• Frontier Culture Museum
• 1290 Richmond Ave., Staunton

"Rebellions and Revolutions will bring living historians from around the country to the Frontier Culture Museum to represent the many rebel movements that have shaped, and been shaped by, American History."

For more information, visit frontiermuseum.org.

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