Why Fairhaven’s Memorial Day Parade Is Changing Its Route This Year

Fairhaven Veterans Agent Mike Jenney is asking area residents to take some time on Memorial Day to remember those veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of this nation.

During a visit to Townsquare Sunday, Jenney said he enjoys holiday cookouts and having a beer with friends just like anyone else, but it's important to take a few minutes to remember those who fought and died for this country.

"Memorial Day is a day for reflection, thinking about the sacrifices made by men and women in the military, so we can enjoy the freedoms that we have today," he said. "It's something very near and dear to my heart."

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Fairhaven's giant American flag will be raised Monday morning outside Fairhaven High School at 8 a.m. John Medeiros, a member of Jenney's Parade Committee, and members of the Disabled American Veterans Chapter No. 7 in New Bedford will do the honors.

New Route and Schedule for the 2026 Fairhaven Parade

Because of construction on Interstate 195, Jenney said Fairhaven's Memorial Day Parade will begin Monday at 9 a.m. from behind Fairhaven High, and continue on Main Street to Riverside Cemetery, where a ceremony will be held at the Civil War Monument.

Ceremony Highlights and Severe Weather Backup Plans

The ceremony will feature several speakers. The New Bedford Choral Group and Fairhaven High School Band will offer music, and the Fairhaven Militia will provide a salute to the fallen. In case of rain, the ceremony will be moved to the Fairhaven Senior Center and will start at 11 a.m.

"On Memorial Day, I try to keep the parade a somber event," said Jenney, who served in the U.S. Air Force and is the current commander of the American Legion Post in Acushnet.

An Urgent Call to Action for Returning Veterans

Jenney said he works with a group of veterans throughout the year who are very passionate about their service, and the service Fairhaven veterans have given to this country. He said that passion is not always there in veterans returning home today, however.

"Many veterans returning home today are not going to their community's veterans office, or the American Legion or VFW for help," he said. "They wait until later in life, when they're struggling and can't find a job or medical problems emerge. They should come in now and talk to me. There are a lot of benefits out there they can qualify for."

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