For decades, VFW Post 7635 Joseph G. Rose and American Legion Post 240 Manuel M. Lopes have upheld the solemn tradition of honoring fallen servicemen and women at Hills Ferry Cemetery each Memorial Day. But now, the future of this annual tribute—and other longstanding veterans' events—hangs in the balance as dwindling membership and a lack of volunteers threaten to bring them to an end.

The placement of 900 flags and crosses at veterans' graves, a time-honored tradition, will take place earlier than usual, on Thursday and Friday, to avoid conflicting with funeral services for Kelsy Ramos. Organizers are in urgent need of volunteers to assemble flags and crosses at 1 p.m. on Thursday at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Gustine. VFW Post 7635 Commander Mel Soares described the situation as “all hands on deck,” emphasizing that without more help, keeping these tributes alive will become increasingly difficult.

The Memorial Day service itself is set for Monday at 11 a.m., with attendees asked to arrive by 10 a.m. The event will feature remarks from local dignitaries and clergy, followed by a pie and ice cream social, hosted by the auxiliaries. A memorial bench will also be dedicated to Joe Rocha, a longtime member and past president of both organizations. At 4 p.m., youth groups will help take down the flags and crosses—a rare moment when younger volunteers assist in the effort.

Yet, despite the deep-rooted significance of these tributes, organizers warn that they are struggling to keep them going. Soares revealed that only five to six volunteers, all in their late 70s or older, are carrying the weight of planning and execution. “It’s getting hard on all of us to continue,” he admitted. “There’s no guarantee that it will happen next year.”

At the national level, the VFW and American Legion advocate for veterans’ rights, work to protect benefits, and ensure that those who served are not forgotten. But locally, these organizations do even more—awarding scholarships, leading school and community programs, hosting events like the Memorial Day tribute and Veterans Day parade, and providing a critical support network for veterans.

To keep these traditions alive, new volunteers and members are desperately needed. Anyone can step in to help—membership is not required to volunteer. Those who do want to join the VFW or American Legion will have their dues covered for one year, with only one event commitment required.

For Soares and his fellow organizers, community support is everything. “It’s a real shot in the arm,” he said. “That’s what keeps us going. Us old guys, we can’t say no when we are called upon. It’s about keeping our town’s traditions going.”

Residents are encouraged to attend Monday’s tribute and consider volunteering, ensuring that the legacy of honoring veterans does not fade away.