(WFRV) – Residents from across Northeast Wisconsin gathered today in Neenah-Menasha, Appleton, and De Pere to honor the lives of U.S. military personnel who died in service to their country.
Memorial Day events were marked by parades, patriotic music, speeches, and solemn ceremonies of remembrance.
In Neenah and Menasha, the day began with a waterfront tribute to veterans lost at sea, featuring a floral offering, a rifle salute by the Neenah-Menasha Veterans Honor Guard, and music from the Menasha High School Marching Band.
A community parade followed, winding through both cities and concluding near the Ascension Clinic. Later, a formal ceremony at Oak Hill Cemetery included student speakers, wreath placements, and military honors. Community members gathered afterward for a car show, brat fry, and bake sale hosted by American Legion Post 33.
Appleton’s Memorial Day Parade connects generations in tribute
In Appleton, the city’s Memorial Day Parade began at 9 a.m. with the National Anthem and a ceremonial rifle shot.
Spectators lined the streets to view the procession, which included a semi-truck carrying banners displaying the names of fallen Outagamie County service members, a collaboration between local veterans groups and businesses.
The parade ended at Riverside Cemetery, where students, veterans, and city leaders gathered for a “Moment of Remembrance” featuring speeches, live music, and a traditional rifle salute and performance of “Taps.”
In De Pere, the annual Kiwanis Memorial Day Parade stepped off from West De Pere High School and made its way through the city to Broadway. At Voyageur Park, the community gathered for a veterans ceremony hosted by VFW Post 2113. All military branches were honored during the program, which invited reflection and appreciation for those who have served.
Across the region, residents came together not just to celebrate, but to remember, united in gratitude for the sacrifices that protect our freedoms.
