UPDATE: The Anthes Avenue location has been changed to Lillinonah Town Park.

American Legion Post 202 invites the public to a special “Taps Along The Housatonic” Memorial Day observance planned for Monday, May 31.

Musicians and post members will assemble at eight different locations along the Housatonic River in Sandy Hook beginning at 10:10 am. Past district commander Mike Kellett initiated the event in 2020, since traditional celebrations were not possible due to COVID-19 restrictions. The post will commemorate again this year in similar fashion.

“Taps” will be played on one or two instruments at each location, with the ceremony lasting less than one minute. Most of the musicians are from Newtown, with a few special guests from neighboring towns. Saxophonists, trombonists, and trumpet players will be participating.

A father and son duo is among the musicians returning for this second annual observance. The father is a WWII Navy veteran who keeps up with his music, practicing every day.

“Taps,” a 24-note tune, is a distinctive melody traditionally played at US military funerals and memorials and as a lights-out signal to soldiers at night that dates from the American Civil War.

Those who wish to join may do so by putting their hand over their heart or rendering a hand salute to honor deceased veterans.

A short film by William Cafarelli will be available sometime after Memorial Day to include still photos and video footage of that day, as well as photos of veterans in uniform who have passed on, but who lived in Newtown at some time during their life. Military photos must be submitted prior to Memorial Day.

Last year’s film, “Taps Along the Housatonic, Newtown CT” also produced by Bill Cafarelli, is posted at youtube.com/watch?v=gkozeqdlkk8.

“Taps” locations this year are:

10:10 am — Eichler’s Cove (limited capacity for parking);

10:11 am — end of Mohawk Trail;

10:12 am — end of Sweetbriar Lane;

10:13 am — Riverside Drive, near Center Street (near Lorenzo’s Restaurant);

10:14 am — Glen Road Silver Bridge (will be closed during observance);

10:15 am — river/tree line at Walnut Tree Baseball Field, 2 Bridge End Farm Lane;

10:16 am — Anthes Avenue; and

10:17 am — Shady Rest Community Beach.

Participants are asked to maintain appropriate social distancing from those not in their own households. Those who are not vaccinated should plan to wear a mask. Volunteers are welcome and should contact the post.

To learn more about the American Legion Post 202 or this event contact Sr Vice Commander Donna A Monteleone at americanlegionnewtown@gmail.com or call or text 203-577-9568.

Veterans, spouses, parents, grandparents, children, and grandchildren of active duty service members, veterans, or veterans who have passed on are welcome to join the American Legion family.