This year’s Memorial Day services in Lehighton will still go on, but on a much smaller scale.

Kevin Long, commander of the Lehighton United Veterans Organization, said changes had to be made, but not all is lost.

“We’re still going to pay our respects in all cemeteries and monuments in the area,” Long said. “We’ll follow the schedule as we do every year; we have to do something.”

Long said the UVO will still conduct rural services on Sunday, and then both Lehighton and Weissport on Memorial Day.

“We certainly want to do something; the UVO will definitely be out there to give those honors,” he said. “We can never forget what they did for our freedom; that’s what it’s all about.”

Lehighton elementary teacher and local historian Ron Rabenold spoke during last year’s Lehighton Memorial Day service in the Upper Park Amphitheater.

After the main service, those who were able formed up on North Third Street and proceeded to Lehighton Cemetery, where military honors were rendered.

The group then proceeded to American Legion Post 314 for the flag raising ceremony and conclusion of Memorial Day services and honors.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Long said this year’s version will be noticeably different from in year’s past.

“Unfortunately with the COVID-19 and stuff that’s in place, we’re unfortunately not able to hold the service traditionally as we do every year,” he said. “(This will be) hopefully the first and the last decision we’ll ever make like this.”