Remembering those who have died to provide Americans freedom is what Memorial Day is all about. In Antioch, the observances set for Monday are about providing a way for grateful residents to say thank you.

“There are a lot of people who are looking for a way to say thanks,” said Antioch Mayor Jim Davis. “This is one way they can do it.”

Now nearly a dozen years old and still growing, the name of this year’s observance is appropriately dubbed Antioch Memorial Thunder. It will begin with the arrival of dozens of riders from patriotic motorcycle groups, and before it’s over, a trio of vintage warplanes will roar overhead. The ceremony will feature many local musicians, speakers, a 21-gun salute, a dove release and other traditional activities.

“We’d like to invite all the public to join us in paying tribute to those who fought for our liberty and are no longer here,” Davis said.

The public is also invited to enjoy a post-event barbecue at the VFW Hall, where $5 will buy lunch. Chicken, Polish dogs, hamburgers, chili and salad will be served. The Hall is located at 815 Fulton Shipyard Road in Antioch.

In addition to VFW Post 6435, participating sponsors of this year’s event include the City of Antioch, Oak View Memorial Park Cemetery, the Army’s 483rd Transportation Battalion, American Legion Post 161, the Boy and Cub Scouts of America, and the Patriot Sentinel Riders.

PROGRAM

Oak View Memorial Park

2500 E. 18th St., Antioch

Start time: 10 a.m.

Flyover by B17, B24 bombers, P51 fighter

Note: Timing of flyover dependent on conditions

Arrival of motorcycle procession

Flag Presentation: Antioch Police Honor Guard

National Anthem: AHS and DVHS Choirs

Welcome: Mayor James Davis

Invocation: Chaplin Herb White, VFW Post 6435

Music: “When the Battle’s O’r,” Bagpiper Jeff Campbell

Music: “Gospel to the World,” Vickie Garcia

Speaker: Virginia Thomas

Music: “You and Me,” James Martin

Speaker: Henri Veilieux, VFW Post 6435 Commander

Speaker: Tom Karas, VFW District Commander

Music: “Go Rest High on This Mountain,” Timothy Forrester

Speaker: Col. Scott Gemeling – Commander, 483rd Transportation Battalion

Music: AHS and DVHS Choirs

Music: “Amazing Grace,” Piper Jeff Campbell

Placing of Rose on 9/11 Monument: BSA Troop 450, Cub Pack 151

Placing of the Wreath: Post Commander Henri Veilieux, Mayor James Davis

Music: “Time to Say Goodbye,” Carolina Bruno

Presentation: Bell Ceremony and Pow/MIA Table, Patriot Sentinel Riders

Music: “God Bless America,” Karla Adams

Dove release

Music: “Going Home,” Jeff Campbell

Music: “All Rise,” Psalm 100 Choir

Gun Salute: VFW Post 6435 Honor Guard

Taps: Justin Spahn, Stephen Guidry

Benediction: Herb White – VFW Post 6435 Chaplin