65° and Patchy rain nearby
Image
photographs by Amy Muzopappa unless otherwise noted
by Jane Stahl
I admit to feeling some pride in our community this Memorial Day. While some local communities, fearing wet weather, took a literal "rain check" and canceled their parades and ceremonies honoring those soldiers who lost their lives in conflict, Boyertown's parade and ceremonies were held as planned.
I wasn't sure. The streets were eerily quiet Monday morning. Drizzly and overcast. If there were a parade as scheduled, I wondered if there would be anyone to witness it.
And yet, as the time for the parade to pass my location got closer, more and more folks lined the pavement, set up chairs to watch, arrived with their children and their pets...as always.
photo by Jane Stahl
And by the time the parade passed and the ceremony began, I realized that the community came to witness and honor the fallen like they do on any other bright and sunny Memorial Day.
Photo by Jane Stahl
Wreathes were placed; prayers and remarks offered; the bands played, a gun salute and the traditional round robin of trumpets playing "Taps" ended the ceremony--again, as usual. Folks drifted home. But what they left in another eerie silence was remembrance. And their gratitude.
photo by Jane Stahl
It's the least we can do, of course, but too often, even the least of efforts is abandoned for ease and other plans or simple forgetfulness.
But not this day for our community. We remembered the importance of the holi-day and showed up. And I admit to feeling a bit of pride in a show of sincere and unassuming patriotism that honored the sacrifice.
Thanks to all who made the day happen.
Thank you, Amy Muzopappa, parade organizer, and Mark Malizzi, Chaplain.
More News from Boyertown
- May 27: One-a-Day: Flowers--Nature's Eye Candy Begonias: beautiful saturated colors!
- Alumni Marching Unit Invites Residents To Help Them Celebrate 50 Years Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit celebrates 50 years with busy performance schedule.
