The Chicago Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade is scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2008. The Wreath Laying Ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. at the Eternal Flame on Daley Plaza in Chicago (Dearborn and Washington Streets). The parade will step off at 12:00 (noon) and proceed south on State Street from Wacker Drive to Van Buren Street. Memorial Day is a day to be thankful that we live in a country where freedom, justice and democracy are proudly defended. The City of Chicago honors all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country, and will include recognition of the Illinois Gold Star Families during the Commemoration. Since September 11, 2001, many residents of Illinois have died while in service; this includes the attack on the Pentagon and the continuing war against terrorism. Chicago's Memorial Day Parade is considered one of the