April 23, 2021: The Town of Branford and Veterans Parade Committee announced today that the Memorial Day Parade will be held this year on Monday, May 31. Ceremonies will begin at 7 a.m. with laying of wreaths, lowering of the flag, prayers and Taps at the town's seven cemeteries, wreath laying at the town's monuments and the Naval Prayer at the Montowese Street bridge at 9:15 am. Ceremonies on the Town Green will begin at 10 a.m. with the parade stepping off at 10:30 am.

Last year, the town canceled its annual Memorial Day parade because of the COVID-19 pandemic but still managed to hold a brief ceremony on Town Green to honor those that were lost. It was the first time the parade had been canceled in recent memory. First Selectman James Cosgrove and Veterans Day Parade Committee Chairman Bill O'Brien stated they didn't want to cancel it two years in a row.

"We both wanted to have the Memorial Day Parade this year," said O'Brien. "It's a day of remembrance for those that have died in service to the community and we wanted to honor all those, including many from Branford, who were lost in all wars."

"I feel that it is important to continue to honor those that have lost their lives while serving our country and believe that, under the current conditions, we can do that safely. Over half of our community is currently vaccinated and we feel that the parade route is long enough that those participating and attending will have ample room to socially distance and enjoy the parade," said Cosgrove.

The committee is planning to live stream the services and parade on BCTV for those that prefer to stay home and is encouraging those attending to view the parade in less crowded areas along the route down from the Town Green to North Harbor Street across from Richlin's.