Decoration Day Observation

Recreating the Original G.A.R. Decoration Day Service of 1868: The traditional Decoration Day service of the Grand Army Meade Post #1 will be recreated at Historic Laurel Hill Cemetery, 3822 Ridge Ave. Philadelphia on Sunday, May 30, (original date of Decoration Day) 2021 at 12 noon. All are welcome to attend and participate in the ceremony.

Laurel Hill is the site of the first Memorial Day Observance in Philadelphia on this date in 1868.

Special veterans’ markers will be dedicated at the graves of 2 previously unmarked veterans:

• LTC. James Seibert. Commander of the 7^th Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry
• Lt. Hugh Craig, Officer of the First Troop Philadelphia City Cavalry, PA National Guard, Span-Am War Veteran
• Corporal William Geizer, 109^th U.S. Infantry, 28^th Division KIA in France in WWI

Speakers, ceremonies, and pageant will highlight this special ceremony. Afterwards the entourage will gather at the grave of General Meade, hero of Gettysburg to perform the traditional service to honor all veterans who fell defending the Nation. Wreath-laying, speeches, music, and honor guards will enhance the ceremony.

Historical groups, veterans, and citizens are urged to participate. Wreaths, military contingents, color guards, music and period civilians are encouraged to participate.

Refreshments served after the ceremony.

Co-sponsored by the General Meade Society of Philadelphia; Friends of Laurel Hill; American Legion Post #405; MOLLUS, Union League; Sons of Union Veterans; Patriotic Order Sons of America. For information, call: 215-228-8200