Ceremony remembers the fallen

VERNON — Spectators cheerfully chattered while waiting, May 28, for the 52nd Memorial Day Parade in Vernon. The parade started around the Vernon Dairy Queen on Route 94, traveled toward and through Church Street and Vernon Crossing Road, arriving at the Veteran Memorial Field for a service held at the monument.
The Memorial Day Service program states, “Memorial Day is a day to remember and pay homage to Americans who have paid the supreme sacrifice that we may live in freedom.”
Master of Ceremonies Commander VFW Post #8441 James Glading remembered the brave men who “stood up to an evil which had to be destroyed.”
He reviewed: World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam War, reminding Vietnam Veterans, “Your country loves you. Your fellow brothers love you. You are giants among men. In case you haven't been told, welcome home, and thank you for your service.” — to applause; Desert Storm, and the War on Terror, to whose veterans he said, “Keep fighting the good fight. We're not done, yet. Today we salute you.”
Pastor Connie Squire of the Vernon United Methodist Church gave the invocation and benediction.
Chaplin Russ Thomas of VFW Post 8441 gave, “In Memorial to the War Dead,” asking mercy for the widows and children of departed comrades, comfort for those who are bereaved, and blessings on the country of freedom, peace, and righteousness.
Vernon Township Mayor Harry Shortway thanked the veterans, first aid, police, and fire for their service. He reminded everyone to enjoy the day — but also to remember those who perished “so that we may enjoy our freedoms.”
Vernon Viking Marching Band played, “Washington's Post,” by John Philip Sousa, with lots of brass, along with percussion and woodwinds.
Band Director Max Taylor encouraged each veteran or current service person to salute with their branch's service song: Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, Marines, as the band played, “The Armed Forces Salute” - to more cheers and applause.
Officers of VFW Post #8441 and Ladies Auxiliary lay and blessed a wreath, and symbols of: remembrance, purity, tribute of devotion, emblem of eternity, and American flag.
Quartermaster Robert Constantine then solemnly reviewed the names of the VFW Post #8441 deceased members, the bell tolling with each name.
Marine Corps League Color Guard #747 and VFW Post #8441 rifle squad gave a three volley salute; the Officer of the Day raised the colors as “Taps” was played by a Vernon Township High School student; and another VTHS student sang the “Star Spangled Banner.”
Earlier in the morning, freedom was tangibly expressed throughout the parade to the park.
Volunteer coaches and scout leaders marched with Vernon Little League teams, Boy, Cub, Girl, Daisy, and Cadet troops; and Vernon United Methodist Church members freely shared hot dogs, cookies, watermelon, ice tea, lemonade, and water with participants.
Candy flew out of floats to eager children along the way.
That's a lot of ambulances!” a little boy, Kenny, announced, as he and his two brothers watched for their dad, a Highland Lakes Volunteer Fireman.
The collection of candy grew at their feet.
“Oh, here we go. Fire trucks! Fire trucks!” Kenny continued, while their dad waved to them from a crowd of Vernon Fire Fighters.
“I'm proud to be an American,” rang out from the McAfee Bible church float, “God Bless the USA!” — followed by Cub Scout Pack 183 chanting, “USA! USA!”