Each year, just before the start of the longest continuously running Memorial Day Parade in the country, citizens gather together to join the American Legion in remembering fallen soldiers.

This Memorial Day at 9:40 a.m., American Legion Post #433 will have its traditional ceremony in front of Memorial Hall on Railroad Street.

“For as long as anyone can remember, the American Legion has always held a mini ceremony at the start of the Memorial Day Parade,” American Legion Commander Jim Volgares said in an e-mail.

Jim Williams of Central Christian Church will be giving this year’s prayer.

Volgares stressed the importance of this ceremony and remembering veterans.

“This year’s parade theme is ‘Land of the Free, Because of the Brave.’ Truer words were never spoken. Do your part as a citizen of this country; respect the flag and our veterans. For without them, we would have no country.”