“One of America’s Most Patriotic Towns” continues the annual tradition of commemorating the patriotic holiday with special music, programs and a parade along Main Street, sponsored by the Town of Marion and VFW Post 4667.
The highlight of Marion’s Memorial Day program is the display of crosses and flags on the Smyth County Courthouse lawn and other public areas in the historic downtown.
“Each cross and flag represents a veteran who has passed,” said Marion vice-mayor Dr. James Gates. “This year, we anticipate nearly 2,000 of these ‘silent memorials’. It’s one of the most moving displays you’ll ever see, and there are always people from across the country that stop all hours of the day and night to take pictures.”
In addition to the courthouse flags, memorials to veterans who died in battle are placed on the grounds at nearby Royal Oak Presbyterian Church.
Marion public works crews, assisted by VFW Post 4667 and community volunteers, will start putting the display up on May 20, and the flags will remain on display through early June.
Additionally, The VFW will host “Letters From Home”, a nationally-known patriotic tribute show, at the historic Lincoln Theatre Sunday, May 26 at 3 p.m. Admission is free, and tickets are available from any member of the Marion VFW or at the door pending seating availability.
Monday, May 27, the Marion Memorial Day Grand Parade kicks off along Main Street at 10 a.m. All are invited to participate, but all participants must feature a patriotic theme. Lineup is at Poston Street beginning at 9 a.m., and the parade route will be closed to traffic 9:30– 11:30 a.m.
Following the parade, Marion VFW Post 4667 will host a program and community cookout at their post home located at 861 Goolsby Street beginning at noon.
For information on how to apply for a flag memorial, go to
