The City of Covington announced on May 8 that it will hold a series of Memorial Day observances and its 105th annual parade on Monday, May 25, honoring those who lost their lives in service to the United States.
The events are intended to bring the community together in remembrance and recognition of military sacrifice. The day’s schedule includes morning tributes at several local memorial sites, a citywide parade featuring officials and organizations, and a formal ceremony at Historic Linden Grove Cemetery & Arboretum.
Morning observances will begin at VFW Post 6095 at 7 a.m., followed by ceremonies at American Legion Post 203, the Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, World War II Memorial, Mother of God Cemetery, and Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Each site will feature a prayer, a wreath-laying by an Honor Guard from Latonia American Legion Post 203 and Marshall Schildmeyer VFW Post 6095, a playing of “Taps,” and a 21-gun salute.
Parade participants are scheduled to line up at Holmes High School starting at 1 p.m., with the procession stepping off at 2 p.m. The route travels north on Madison Avenue before concluding at Linden Grove Cemetery & Arboretum. City officials say the parade will include police officers, firefighters, military contingents with vehicles, sports teams, musical groups including choir and band members, as well as fraternal organizations. Those interested in participating can contact Community Liaison Chris Brown for more information.
Following the parade is a formal program beginning at 3 p.m. within Linden Grove Cemetery’s Veterans’ Monument area. Dave Schroeder—Executive Director of Kenton County Public Library—will serve as keynote speaker. This year’s Grand Marshal is Corporal (E-4) Rick Mann—a Vietnam War veteran who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1966 to 1969.
Covington fosters a diverse population that combines an Old World work ethic with creative talent while enhancing recreation through its parks system; it also features historic homes alongside repurposed commercial spaces according to the official website. As one of Kentucky’s most populous cities adjacent to Cincinnati across the Ohio River—and named for a war hero—the city blends historic preservation with community development efforts according to the official website.
