Wreath-Laying Ceremonies

The laying of wreaths signifies our continuous commitment to honor and remember the sacrifices made by generations of fallen heroes in defense of America.

The Town of Westport's annual Memorial Day Wreath-Laying Ceremonies will take place on Saturday, May 28, 2022.

The ceremony schedule is:

• 9:00 AM ~ American Legion Post ~ Our first stop is the historic American Legion post at 489 Sanford Road, home to both the American Legion James Morris Post 145 and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 207.
• 9:15 AM ~ Latessa Square ~ Our second stop is the memorial near the intersection of Tickle Road and Oak Avenue that is named for PFC Andre Latessa, US Marine Corps, who was killed in action in Vietnam on Aug. 18, 1967, at 19 years old.
• 9:30 AM ~ Veterans of Foreign Wars Post ~ Our third stop is the Westport VFW. This post is named in memory of three members of the Ouellette family, Wilfred, Arthur, and Raymond, who were killed in action during World War II.
• 10:00 AM ~ Fontaine Bridge ~ We head south for our fourth stop at the bridge on Route 88, which is named for SP4 Normand Fontaine, US Army, who was killed in action in Vietnam on May 8, 1968, at 19 years old. The ceremony takes place on the northbound side at the small building.
• 10:15 AM ~ Westport Point ~ Our final stop is at the harbor at the southernmost end of Main Road. The significance of tossing a bouquet into the water at Westport Point is to honor and remember those service members who were lost at sea.

Ceremony Ritual ~ Reading of memorial poem, laying of wreath/bouquet toss, rifle salute by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 207 honor guard, and playing of TAPS

Anyone who wishes to observe the ceremonies should meet in the American Legion parking lot no later than 9 AM, or at whichever location they choose at least 10 minutes prior to the designated time.

For information, contact Veterans’ Service Officer Carol Freitas at 508-636-1028 or freitasc@westport-ma.gov.