05/30/2026
The Valhalla Memorial Day Ceremony was held on Monday, May 25th. While the weather may have changed our original plans, it certainly did not diminish the patriotism, community participation, or most importantly, the honor and respect of the day. It was shown throughout the day at the Town of Mt. Pleasant Community Center.
Originally observed on May 30th each year, Memorial Day began as "Decoration Day" following the Civil War. In 1971, Congress officially designated Memorial Day as a federal holiday and, under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, moved its observance to the last Monday in May. In preparation for Memorial Day 2026, members of American Legion Post 1038 family and Valhalla Troop 1 spent the past month “decorating” graves at six cemeteries throughout our community.
This year's ceremony was recognized as a 250th anniversary event for the Town of Mt. Pleasant. A re-enactor portraying Ben Franklin delivered a keynote address reflecting on our nation's past, while Annette Gabriel provided a keynote speech focused on the present. The large turnout demonstrated the community's commitment to honoring and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Earlier that morning, wreaths were placed at dedicated monuments in the village.
We were also proud to crown four Little Miss Poppies and one Mrs. Poppy. They were all wonderful representatives and helped remind us of the significance of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance. Even Uncle Sam made a special appearance. What truly made this day memorable was the incredible outpouring of community support. We are deeply grateful to all of the participants and supporters who helped make this event possible:
First Responders
* Mount Pleasant Police Department
* Valhalla Fire Department
* Hawthorne Fire Department
* Valhalla Ambulance Corps
Youth and School Organizations
* Valhalla High School Jazz Band
* Valhalla Boy Scout Troop 1 / Cub Scouts Pack 111
* Hawthorne Boy Scout Troop 1
* Valhalla Girl Scouts
* Mount Pleasant Girl Scouts
* River Towns Young Marines
* Valhalla Junior Vikings - Cheerleaders and Football
Community Partners
* ShopRite
* Valhalla Lions Club
* Town of Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce
Special Thanks
* Town of Mt. Pleasant Supervisor, Carl Fulgenzi
* Chief of Police Paul Oliva
* Captain Pierce
* Superintendent of Recreation, Doug Scott
* Town of Mt. Pleasant Parks Department, whose dedication and flexibility made it possible for us to adapt our plans and successfully host the ceremony.
And finally, to all the residents who took the time to attend and pay tribute to our fallen heroes—thank you. Your presence helped make this a truly meaningful day of remembrance and gratitude.
Valhalla United Methodist Church
Town of Mount Pleasant, NY
Valhalla Schools
Valhalla Boy Scout Troop 1
Great Keepsakes Photography By Donna Mueller