May 2025

Troop 5 Honors Memorial Day in Maplewood’s 2025 Parade

By Scoutmaster · May 2025

Memorial Day has long been one of Troop 5’s most meaningful traditions, and this year was no exception.

On Memorial Day 2025, scouts and adult advisors from Troop 5 proudly marched through Maplewood alongside veterans, community organizations, first responders, and local families to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

Carrying the Flag

One of the highlights of the parade each year is Troop 5 carrying the giant American flag through town. Held by scouts across multiple ranks and ages, the flag has become a recognizable part of Maplewood’s Memorial Day tradition. Watching the scouts work together to carry it down the parade route is a reminder that leadership and citizenship are often built through shared responsibility and service.

YMCA Duck Race

The day for Troop 5 extends well beyond the parade itself. Following the ceremony, scouts supported the YMCA Duck Race by helping wrangle hundreds of rubber ducks along the river as they raced downstream through the annual event. Like many scouting activities, it was equal parts community service, teamwork, and organized chaos. Somewhere between the bridge and the finish line, a few ducks always attempt their own independent expedition.

The Troop 5 Food Stand

Troop 5 also operated its annual food stand, serving drinks, snacks, and hot dogs to community members while the duck race was in progress. The stand has become another longstanding tradition for the troop and helps support future scouting adventures, campouts, and high-adventure opportunities.

Troop 5 has participated in Memorial Day observances for generations, and each year the tradition continues with a new group of scouts stepping forward to help carry it on.