Altamont Has Canceled Memorial Day Parade, Service

Altamont traditionally hosts a Memorial Day parade, followed by a ceremony at Union Cemetery.

However, the pandemic has claimed another victim.

The parade, conducted by Masonic Lodge #533 of Altamont, has received a directive from the Grand Lodge of Illinois to cease all events in the month of May.

The VFW Gieseking-Schwerdtfeger Post #7676 of Altamont has determined for public safety to abstain from a Memorial Day service.

The display of American flags at Union and St. Clare Cemeteries and along Main Street will continue as usual. The Grobengieser-Fischer American Legion Post #512 will place flags at veterans gravesites.

The City of Altamont invites local churches to ring bells at the normal parade start time of 10am on May 26. On this Decoration Day, residents and businesses are called to join in displaying red, white and blue ribbons and streamers and the like in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.