Hastings Community Memorial Observances are planned for Monday, May 27, 2024, at the Minnesota Veterans Home, Roadside Park, Soldiers and Sailors Cemetery, and the Veterans Memorial at Levee Park.
This year’s event is hosted by Hastings’ Lyle Russell VFW Post 1210 in conjunction with Nelson-Lucking American Legion Post 47.
The program will begin at 8:15 a.m. with a flag raising ceremony at the Minnesota Veterans Home, 1200 E. 18th St. Next, a program at Roadside Park will follow (approximately 9:00 a.m.) which will include special remarks by Hastings’ Mayor, Mary Fasbender. Upon completion, a short remembrance ceremony will be held at Soldiers and Sailors Cemetery on West First Street and Ninninger Road. Finally, the event will culminate with a main ceremony at the Veterans Memorial at Levee Park on Ramsey and First Street starting at 11:00 with a two-plane fly over by the Commemorative Air Force. The Master of Ceremony for this program is Post 1210-member, Mike Sawicki and will feature former media personality, Korean War Veteran, and longtime Hastings’ resident Richard Hullander as the program’s keynote speaker. Essays will also be presented by local Voice of Democracy and Patriot Pen winners Olivia Schuster and Josie Rondeau and will include a wreath laying ceremony. Additionally, honors and echo taps will be presented by the Post 1210 Rifle Squad and members of the Hastings Highschool Band.
The Community is invited and encouraged to attend any or all observances. It is also recommended attendees bring their own seating as desired.
In case of inclement weather, the entire ceremony will be held at 11:00 in the Hasting Armory at 3050 Minnesota 316 Hastings, MN 55033.
