MASSENA -- Sept. 7 to 9 in the village have been officially designated as "Marine Corps League Rose Days."

Mayor Tim Currier recently signed a proclamation naming the three-day period.

The proclamation reads:

"Whereas, the Marine Corps League of Massena, NY Ship #685 is Incorporated with offices located at 166 Maple Street, Massena, New York; and

In 1778 during the War of Independence the Marine Corps Rose was dedicated to Marines who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. This tradition was continued by the French during WWI, as they planted roses at the graves of the fallen Marines when the Marines were attacked by the Germans; and

It is understood that one of the many goals of Marine Corps League Rose Program is to provide funds for detachments to assist Veterans and youth, as well as provide other services to the community;

Whereas, the members of the Marine Corps League are committed to serving both the Veterans and participation in local patriotic events and projects;

Now, therefore, I, Timmy J. Currier, Mayor of the Village of Massena, New York, do hereby proclaim September 7th – 9th as 'Marine Corps League Rose Days' in the Village of Massena and urge the citizens of this community to support our Veterans in need by contributing generously to the Marine Corps League Rose Program sponsored by Marine Corps League of Massena, NY #685. Furthermore, I urge all patriotic citizens to wear a Marine Corps Rose as evidence of our gratitude to the men and women of this country who have risked their lives in defense of the freedoms which we continue to enjoy as American citizens."