RUSSELL – The town’s Recreation Committee is assuming the responsibility of hosting a reception following the annual Memorial Day Parade due to financial constraints by Russell VFW Post 6645, according to selectman Nancy Mezger.
“During the past few years the Women’s Auxiliary has provided food for the reception but due to a tight budget and dwindling membership, they were unable to this year,” said Mezger. “When we found out they couldn’t host the reception we knew the town would since it is our way of honoring the veterans.”
Mezger is hopeful that town residents will consider making finger sandwiches (chicken salad, egg salad, tuna salad), salads, finger foods, and a variety of desserts so that all parade participants will be treated to a nice reception at the Russell VFW following the ceremonies.
“We have ordered platters to make cold cut sandwiches but we are in need of more donations,” said Mezger.
Donations of paper and plastic products including plates and cups, as well as beverages and napkins are also welcomed.
Residents and groups wishing to participate in the parade are asked to line up at the Russell Fire Department beginning at 1:30 p.m. on May 28. Individuals with classic cars are also encouraged to be a part of the parade.
“All veterans are welcome to participate in the parade,” said Mezger, adding she expects Victor Desabrais, the oldest veteran from Russell, to also attend.
“Victor no longer lives in town but he always comes back for the parade along with his family,” said Mezger.
Mezger said the parade starts at 2 p.m. from the Fire Department and marches up Main Street, turning east on Route 20 to the Russell Cemetery on Old Westfield Road.
“Jill Jacques will play Taps for us,” said Mezger.
Following the ceremony at the cemetery, parade participants will then march to the Veterans Park where Mezger will read the Governor’s Proclamation marking Memorial Day. Once the proclamation is read and the ceremonies come to a close, parade participants are then welcome to attend the reception at the Russell VFW.
“What is wonderful about people in Russell is they show up for the parade, it’s a tradition,” said Mezger.
For more information on donating one’s time to help assemble the reception items on May 27 or to make a food donation, call Mezger at (413) 454-9708.
“Any donation would be greatly appreciated,” she said.
On a related note, the Recreation Committee is asking town children to help replace the flags on the graves of Russell veterans on May 25, starting at 4 p.m.
“We are asking children and their parents to help us with the approximately 175 flags that need to be replaced with new ones at the Russell Cemetery on Old Westfield Road,” said Mezger, adding that members of the Recreation Committee will also be replacing flags at an old cemetery “on the mountain” which includes veterans from the Civil War.
