Memorial Day weekend is almost upon us, and it's important to remember the reason for the holiday. Before you get a jump start on celebrating the return of summer, it might be a good idea to take some time to remember all the brave men and women that have fought for our country. One way you can do that is by volunteering at a local cemetery on Saturday morning.

Cedar Memorial at 4200 First Ave NE in Cedar Rapids is looking for volunteers who want to help place flags on the graves of veterans this weekend. The more people they can get, the better, as there are around 8,000 flags that need to be put out. Depending on the number of people who show up, the task can take anywhere from two to four hours.

If you'd like to help, Cedar Memorial is asking that you come by at 8 a.m. and meet at the lower level of the Family Center. There will be food from Hy-Vee available for volunteers in the upper level until 11 a.m. If you're available to flag pick-up, that will begin at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, May 31st.

Cedar Memorial will host a Memorial Day program on Monday, May 30th at 11 a.m. The Facebook event page reads:

"Join us for this patriotic salute with an inspiring message from Gene Petersen, a Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran and District Coordinator with his wife for the Quilts of Valor organization. The program will also include live music from the Harmony Hawks, flag presentation and rifle volley from the United States Army, live taps, and a dove
release in remembrance of the lives lived and a representation of the continued hope for peace."

You will also be able to see the Avenue of Flags all weekend long, which is the display of over 1,500 American flags that have been donated by the families of veterans.

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