OPELIKA, Ala. – The City of Opelika will host Memorial Day Services on May 25, 2026. The event will honor and remember our military heroes who fought for the freedom of our country, as well as the families who lost loved ones in the line of service. Services will be held at Courthouse Square at 10 a.m.
We have a special lineup this year:
Welcome by Mayor Eddie Smith
Invocation and Benediction by Pastor Robert Miller, Tenth Street Church of Christ
Introduction of the Legacy of Courage Award and recipients
LTC Michael “Mike” Venafro, Commander of the 1-507th Parachute Infantry Regiment, is a native of Fall River, Massachusetts, who also spent part of his formative years in Opelika, Alabama. Commissioned as an Infantry Officer through the University of South Alabama, he has served in leadership assignments across the United States, South Korea, Afghanistan, Europe, and the Middle East throughout a distinguished military career spanning more than two decades. A veteran of multiple combat deployments, LTC Venafro most recently commanded the 4th Ranger Training Battalion before assuming command of 1-507th PIR in 2025. He and his wife, Tyler, are the proud parents of four children.
The City of Opelika is proud to introduce the Legacy of Courage Award, a program created to honor and recognize veterans who have demonstrated exceptional service, sacrifice, courage and continued commitment to their community. This award seeks to celebrate those who not only served our nation with honor, but who have also carried that same spirit of service into their civilian lives—strengthening the Opelika community through leadership, integrity, and selflessness.
“We invite the entire community to join us this Memorial Day as we come together to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” said Leigh Krehling, Community Relations Officer for the City of Opelika. “We are especially proud to introduce the new Legacy of Courage Award, which will recognize the extraordinary service, sacrifice, and lasting impact of veterans in our community. It is our hope that this award will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.”
Following the Memorial Day services, the Museum of East Alabama will host a reception for the public to share the extraordinary memorabilia of Opelika’s history.
In the case of rain, the 10 a.m. services will be moved to the Opelika Public Library.
