Memorial Day weekend community picnic at Richard I. Bong center

The Richard I. Bong Veterans’ Historical center held a Memorial Day weekend community picnic. The last couple of years the community picnic was held off due to COVID-19 pandemic and poor weather conditions.

From antique weapon demonstrations, to military vehicles on display, the Memorial Day weekend community picnic helped kick off summer. People in Superior were able to bond with one another while honoring veterans who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

John Gidley, the Executive Director at the Bong center, talked more about why Memorial Day is so important. “It’s a day we have to recognize and honor the sacrifices people gave for us. And we’re kind of doing a little bit of a celebration here.” Gidley said. “And then come Monday, it turns a little more somber. We have a raising of the flag here at the bong center. We also have this ceremony in the cemetery in Superior.”

James Sparks, an Air Force recruiter at the Memorial Day weekend community picnic, also talked about why Memorial Day is special for veterans no longer with us. “The Army National Guard is here and so is the Navy, it’s great giving back to events like this at the Bong center.” Sparks said. “You want to show your support for the military. It’s just a great way to honor the men and women who lost their lives, while serving.”

For more information about the Memorial Day weekend community picnic and other events happening at the Bong center you can look here. For more Memorial Day stories you can read more here.