Memorial Day Monday at Clark Lake has a longstanding tradition–the Biggest Little Parade you’ll find anywhere.  Clark Lakers line either side of Hyde Road to view the parade as it passes from north to south.  The Columbia Central Marching Band typically leads the parade and many others follow, including Clark Lake’s kids. 

The parade is about honoring the nation’s fallen heroes, and specifically those whose final resting place is the Clark Lake Cemetery.  So, there are solemn moments that focus the meaning of the occasion.  One is when the parade stops in front of the Cemetery and a memorial is placed on one of the graves, symbolically representing all who fell.  Prayers are said.  Taps is played with one bugle at the front of the Cemetery while another answers from the back.  The group moves to the Clarklake Community Church where viewers hear more spoken words and the National Anthem is played.

That won’t happen tomorrow.  2020 is the year that broke many traditions.  However, you should know that our fallen heroes won’t be forgotten.  Tomorrow (Monday) morning at 9, Walt Schuberg is holding an informal gathering in front of the Cemetery.  A wreath will be placed on a hero’s grave. Prayers will be said, and there will be some (recorded) music, including Taps.  Jere Austin, himself a veteran, will speak.  Jere was part of last year’s Memorial Day event, as you will see when you view the video.

Tomorrow’s gathering is not sponsored by any group, and Walt Schuberg welcomes Clark Lakers to socially distance and be part of it. 

Please click here to view last year’s event.  The video featuring Jere Austin is the third one in the sequence and is titled “Columbia Central Band.”  

  

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