Throughout Lawrence County, the week leading up to the Memorial Day holiday is full of patriotic and fun activities.

While the patriotism can be seen throughout the year, residents’ American pride will be on full display this week.

Each of the ceremonies and events over the next week are important as our community assembles to honor the men and women who have allowed our nation to remain free and have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

These events throughout the county and region promote community and allow residents to honor our veterans.

Some of these events include the annual Navy Night on Thursday, which celebrates those maritime branches of the military along with the annual service at Woodland Cemetery on Sunday.

All the events and ceremonies culminate with the annual Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade on Monday, which is the longest continuously parade in the entire nation.

Ultimately, chances are each of us knows someone who served in the military and this should be a week of commemorating our past while continuing to look toward the future.

Lawrence County is a special place that offers a variety of events relating to Memorial Day, and we encourage residents from around the region to attend if you have never had the opportunity. It will leave a lasting impression of patriotism.