Memorial Day public ceremonies in Hastings and in many other communities will be cancelled this year due to covid-19 precautions,  but the true meaning of the national day of observance will not be forgotten.

Jim Atkinson of Lawrence J. Bauer American Legion Post 45 said the Memorial Day parade in Hastings will not be held this year, however American flags will be displayed at Riverside Cemetery and at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Hastings.  Atkinson, who was organizing the parade for Post 45, said that a memorial ceremony will be announced and held at a later date to honor the most recently buried veterans.

When Michigan’s emergency order was extended by the Governor to May 28, American Legion Michigan Department Commander Barry Wood sent an advisory for Posts which discouraged ceremonies, owing to the difficulty in assuring adequate social distance.