Editor, Manteca Bulletin,
East Union Memorial Cemetery has had much to be thankful for recently.  We had a fabulous turnout for our Spring Clean-up Day in April. Almost 100 people came out and worked hard for several hours, making the grounds more beautiful by mowing, weeding, hedging, and trimming around headstones.  We depend entirely on volunteers right now, and it was inspiring to see this amazing community response.
On Memorial Day weekend, we had Boy Scout Troops 423 and 438, their leaders, and other civic-minded people put flags on the graves of all known veterans interred at EUMC.  In the last year volunteers have searched many old records, and we can now identify over 350 veterans, up from about 180 that were known previously.  It was so impressive to see the Scouts stand at attention in front of each grave, salute, say the veteran’s name, and place a flag.  In addition, Manteca’s American Legion Post 249, VFW Post 6311, and Lathrop’s VFW Auxiliary organized a stirring, well-attended Memorial Day service that really completed the weekend’s patriotic observances. 
Most recently, EUMC had its first annual Pioneer Dinner — it was a sold-out crowd!  We would like to thank the American Legion for the use of their hall, and Joe Waltman for cooking a great meal — we heard many compliments about the tasty food.  Dozens of people donated time, energy, and material goods so that we could have a successful fund-raiser, and we really appreciate those efforts.   
We are excited and pleased with the community support we have received from so many people in Manteca, Lathrop, and French Camp.  It is gratifying to know that people care about our historic pioneer cemetery, and are willing to show it.  We look forward to seeing people at Park Fest today, please stop by our booth!  We would really love to see any old photos people have of the cemetery grounds, and to share stories about EUMC events of the past 144 years.

East Union Memorial
Cemetery Board of Directors