American Legion Post 376 Honor Guard on Memorial Day back in 1948, at Riverview Cemetery. The current Post Honor Guard will perform the traditional services again this year. (Submitted photo)

OXFORD – Memorial Day has become the most important day of recognition of our armed forces. It’s a day we remember and reflect on many wars and our country's heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. On Monday, May 30, four memorial services will take place in Oxford by the American Legion Post 376 Honor Guard, rain or shine. There will not be a parade in Oxford this year.

COVID precautions have made it impossible for the Oxford Academy band students to safely gather and rehearse. Other organizations that normally take part in the parade have also had their activities curtailed. It is hoped that the situation will improve next year.

For now, the following will take place: At 7:45 a.m., the Honor Guard will begin the morning with the wreath laying ceremony and rifle salute at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery on West State Street.

At 8:30 a.m., the Honor Guard will perform a salute honoring those who died at sea at the Main Street Bridge that crosses over the Chenango River. American Legion Auxiliary president Louise Spicer will perform the wreath ceremony, tossing a memorial garland into the Chenango River, followed by a rifle salute.

At 9 a.m., the Honor Guard will be at the Riverview Cemetery with a ceremony honoring the memory of the departed, and a rifle salute.

At 1 a.m., the Legion Honor Guard will go to Warn-TenBroeck Cemetery, seven miles south of Oxford, to place a wreath and to salute the deceased.

After the ceremonies, plan to have some BBQ chicken cooked by the SAL members, Tim, Tim and Team. This Legion fundraiser will be starting at 9 a.m. at the Post 376 Legion, on the Route 12 side.

Enjoy the holiday however you choose to do so. Always take time to remember the red, white, and blue, and those who gave their all.

For more info, contact Post 376 at 607-843-8166; or email AmerLegion@stny.rr.com. Visit oxfordlegion.com/