The South Kingstown Memorial Day Parade, sponsored by South Kingstown VFW – Washington County Post 916, will take place on Monday, May 27, 2024, starting at 10:00 a.m. The parade route will commence on Holly Street in Wakefield, proceed south onto Main Street, and conclude at Saugatucket Park on High Street. This cherished annual event will showcase active and retired military personnel, town dignitaries, local community groups, and the vibrant marching bands of South Kingstown High School and Broad Rock Middle School, along with public safety agencies.
The Parade Committee is proud to announce Krista Simpson Anderson as the Grand Marshal for the 2024 Parade. Krista Simpson Anderson, a Gold Star Spouse and advocate for veterans and their families, brings a deeply personal and inspiring story of service and sacrifice. Her husband, Green Beret SSG Michael H. Simpson, made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his country, and Krista has since dedicated herself to supporting fellow Gold Star families and veterans through organizations like The Unquiet Professional and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS).
Following the parade, a memorial ceremony including members of the South Kingstown Town Council as well as state and federal dignitaries, will be held at the Saugatucket Park Veterans Monument, 101 High Street, Wakefield, starting at 11:00 a.m. The ceremony, led by Master of Ceremonies Joe “Tiger” Patrick VFW 916, and featuring remarks by Parade Grand Marshal Krista Simpson, Senator Jack Reed, and Pastor Keith Mlyneic of The Harbor Church, will pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our nation. Musical performances by The Wakefield Concert Band and the South Kingstown High School Band will add to the solemnity of the occasion, culminating in a wreath-laying ceremony, an Honor Guard Gun Salute, and Taps.
All members of the community are invited to join in honoring our veterans and celebrating the spirit of unity and remembrance that defines Memorial Day. Please note that Main Street will be closed to parking from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. to accommodate public viewing of the parade.
Refreshments will be available at the Elks Lodge 1899, 60 Belmont Street, Wakefield, following the memorial ceremony. For weather-related updates or in case of parade cancellation, please visit the town of South Kingstown website at www.southkingstownri.gov. In the event of cancellation, the Memorial Ceremony will be held at the South Kingstown High School Auditorium, located at 210 Columbia Street, starting at 11:00 a.m.
For more information, please contact Steve Stewart at steve0stewart@outlook.com, South Kingstown VFW – Washington County Post 916.