Living a modern life in a historic town like Stillwater, Minn., one tends to forget that the familiar streets are the same ones people walked on during past war times. This is not the 19th-century Stillwater of Civil War times. It isn’t the Stillwater of 1916, when families worried about their sons in the Great War. It is a time when those serving in the United States military continue to protect us at home and abroad.
On Memorial Day, May 25 this year, we will honor and remember those service men and women who died while serving our country.
Local residents such as John Kraemer never forget them. Sixteen years ago, he began researching the local veterans who were killed in wartime service—and his list was surprisingly long. With the end of the 20th century approaching, he thought it would be an excellent time to submit their names as distinguished alumnae at Stillwater Area High School. When two American history teachers heard about his efforts, they joined the cause, and in 2004, they dedicated a memorial that now includes more than 1,300 names.
Every Memorial Day since, crowds have gathered at the Stillwater Veterans Memorial to honor this ultimate sacrifice. This year, Kraemer says the event will have all of the “bells and whistles.”
Memorial Day Events in the Valley
All events will be held on May 25 unless otherwise indicated.
Afton
Lower St. Croix Valley Support the Troops Night
5–8 p.m. Every Tuesday
Sail Away Café
3121 St. Croix Trail S.
Bayport
American Legion Parade
8:30 a.m.
Minnesota 95 and Central Ave.
Stillwater
Memorial Day Ceremony
11 a.m.
Corner of Third St. N. and Pine St. W.
651.344.6245
Hudson
Memorial Day Ceremony
9 a.m.
St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery
1500 Vine St.
