The Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs announces a series of activities, leading up to the Memorial Day holiday, recognizing the men and women of the armed forces and their families.
The Veterans Affairs Office coordinates with several entities to deliver services to the territory’s veterans, including the Department of Labor, Housing Finance Authority, Survivors Outreach Services, Catholic Charities, Methodist Outreach, University of the Virgin Islands and more.
“This is an important time of year to participate in programs and activities that pay tribute to our loved ones who served in the Armed Forces of this country, and all veterans,” said Harry Daniel, assistant director of the Office of Veterans Affairs.
May is Military Appreciation Month, a time to recognize and reflect on the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. The last weekend of the month is Memorial Day Weekend, when we pause to remember those who gave their lives in service to our country.
A remembrance tree planting ceremony and plaque dedication honoring Virgin Islanders who gave their lives will take place from 6-7 p.m. on May 24 at Roosevelt/Veterans Park on St. Thomas.
Then on May 27, the Veterans office will host a fun day for all veterans and their families at Emile Griffith Park on St. Thomas from 2-6 p.m. The following day, May 28, Memorial Day parades and ceremonies will take place in both districts, including: a procession beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Western Cemetery on St. Thomas. Services will be held at the Emil White memorial, and the procession will move on to Veterans Park for another ceremony. On St. Croix, Memorial Day ceremonies will begin at 9:30 a.m. at Basin Triangle and will proceed to the Christiansted cemetery and then to the waterfront for a seaside ceremony.
In addition, the Virgin Islands Mission will hold its annual banquet at the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Reef Resort on June 1 to honor veterans in the community and to thank them for their service. This year’s honorees include National Guard Sgt. Wilfred Todman, National Guard Staff Sgt. Phillip Grant, and Master Sgt. Harry Daniel.
For more information, call the Office of Veterans Affairs at 774-6100.
