One of the largest Memorial Day program gatherings in the region took place Monday at Memorial Park, Northampton.

A crowd estimated to number in the hundreds attended the Joint Veterans Association's annual Memorial Day Service.

Across town, the Allen Union Cemetery's Memorial Day program was held earlier with a tinge of sadness, as a small crowd learned Troop M, Sons of the Civil Wars, may disband. That would mean the end of the annual Memorial Day ritual at the site where several Civil War soldiers are buried.

The Northampton Joint Veterans Association program began with a small parade on Main Street through the borough's uptown business district before ending at Memorial Park. Led by the Northampton Area High School Big "N" Marching Band, the parade also included borough Cub and Boy Scouts, fire engines and representatives of the Catholic War Veterans Post 454 in Northampton, Fred A. Snyder American Legion Post 353 in Northampton, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4714 of Northampton and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7293 of Egypt, Whitehall Township.

Joan Glover of CWV Post 454 sang the national anthem and gave a presentation for prisoners of war and those missing in action. VFW Post Commander Daniel Weaver gave the welcoming address. A Salute to the Dead was conducted by the joint firing squads of the VFW and CWV Posts. Celtic Adventure played "Amazing Grace" on their bagpipes. A veteran played "Taps" on a trumpet while the American flag was lowered and raised.

Nathaniel Smith, senior vice commander of VFW Post 7293, gave the principal address. He said many veterans carry the Bible with them into battle.

"Remember those who have an empty seat at the table," Smith said. "Freedom is not free. That is the reason why we're here."

At Allen Union Cemetery, whose history goes back to the 1800s, the Tri-County Marching Band led the Sons of the Civil War uniformed contingent onto the grounds. James McCrell, who said he has been with the Civil War company for 60 years, said he is saddened to say the group may disband. He said he hopes a last-minute reprieve will keep it intact.

The group sang "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and Lincoln's Gettysburg Address was read. Lawrence Oberly also gave a spirited patriotic address.

As "Taps" on a trumpet echoed across the cemetery grounds, silence fell on the crowd present for the moving ceremony.