AUBURN – Gracelawn Memorial Park will hold its annual Memorial Day program at 12:15 p.m. Monday, May 31.

The program will include a flag-raising ceremony, accompanied by a bugle solo of “Taps” by Matt Maberry and cannon fire provided by VFW Post 1603 of Auburn. The flag of each branch of the armed services and the POW/MIA flag will be raised by family members of veterans interred at Gracelawn. As each flag is raised, Kathy Haley will lead those present in the singing of the anthem of that branch.

Haley will sing “God Bless the USA” and a wreath will be placed at the U.S. flagpole by representatives of veterans’ organizations. The mayors of Lewiston and Auburn will speak.

Michael Maberry, who led the successful campaign to allow the students of Poland Regional High School the opportunity to recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily, will lead all present in the pledge. He will also raise the U.S. flag.

A special feature of this year’s program will be a dedication to law enforcement officers and firefighters of Maine. Gracelawn will begin flying the Maine state flag and a special plaque will be unveiled.

Detective Scott Bradeen of the Lewiston Police Department will play the bagpipes, accompanied by his wife, Ellie, on the tenor drum. During that portion of the program all firefighters and law enforcement officers present will be invited to form a half circle around the plaque and flagpole.

The program will conclude with the group singing of “God Bless America.” The public is invited.