Memorial Day 2023 in Pottsville: Retired Brigadier General Robert C. Allison Jr. is Keynote Speaker

Pottsville is preparing for Memorial Day 2023.

This year’s events will feature array of activities, highlighted by a keynote speech from a decorated veteran. Retired Brigadier General Robert C. Allison Jr. will be the speaker at this year’s traditional Memorial Day Ceremony on Garfield Square.

Brigadier Gen. Allison’s military career commenced with his enlistment in the Pennsylvania Army National Guard on November 30, 1983, serving through numerous leadership roles until his retirement in February 2019.

The Memorial Day ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. on the Square at W. Market St. This will follow the Memorial Day Mile, a one-mile race that kicks off from 18th Street and ends on the Square.

Race registrations are open at City Hall from Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. On the day of the race, registration will be available from 7:30-8:30 a.m., with the inaugural heat set to begin at 8:45 a.m. An awards ceremony for the race winners is planned to take place immediately following the race.

Alongside Brigadier General Allison’s speech, the ceremony will host performances by Pottsville’s Third Brigade Band. Adding to the patriotic atmosphere, Danica Frederick, the Winter Carnival Snowdrop Princess and Spotlight Kidz Member, will be singing ‘God Bless America’. Local students will also be participating, delivering readings of the Gettysburg Address and Flanders Field.

A segment of the ceremony will also involve the Winter Carnival Royalty recognizing the recipients of the Hometown Hero Banner. Attendees are advised to bring a chair for comfort during the event. In case of rain, the ceremony will be moved to the First United Methodist Church located at 330 W. Market St..

For further information, please reach out to the City Administrator at 570-628-4417.