Memorial Day – A Fitting Remembrance Under Challenging Circumstances

The participants practiced social distancing and proper face covering etiquette throughout the meaningful program.

Officer-of-the-Day, Bobby Blair welcomed those present and those viewing at home via HCAT. He shared some historical instances when other Memorial Day parades had been disrupted. The message I took from his remarks was, remembering those who have fallen in battle is more important than periodic disruptions in our lives.

Pastor Scott Foster of Holliston’s First Baptist Church provided the Invocation
American Legion Commander, Steve Bradford, read a Memorial Day Proclamation from Governor Baker.
Select Board Vice-chair, John Cronin shared the story of one Holliston family’s loss during World War II

Mr. Cronin shared the story of Leonard Chesmore who died in combat in the Pacific. The story highlighted how a family gives so much during wartime – one of the three Chesmore boys who went to war did not return. He thanked Hester Chesmore for sharing the basis for his Memorial Day message so that we could all have a vivid memory of Leonard and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

VFW Chaplain Ron Turcotte read the Necrology of those Holliston veterans who have passed away in the past year and led a prayer for our fallen heroes.
Commander Bradford placed a memorial wreath on the Town Hall veterans monument. You will notice when you drive around town, that the traditional memorial wreaths have been placed at all the locations normally visited during the Memorial Day parade. The traditions go on no matter what the circumstances. Thank you.
Members of the Veterans firing party rendered 3 volleys following Taps, which was played by Matt Perera, who is seen in the background.
Legion Post 47 Adjutant, Walter McGrath raised the flag from half-staff to full staff.
Renee Torio sang the Star Bangled Banner and Father Mark from St. Mary’s Church provided the Benediction to conclude the ceremony.

Thank you Holliston veterans for continuing the important tradition of remembering those who have sacrificed all so that we may be free.

A photo album of the event can be viewed here -> https://www.facebook.com/pg/HollistonReportercom-155733254139/photos/?tab=album&album_id=10158329599564140

Chris Cain

1 Comment

  1. Steve Bradford, Chair Hollison Memorial Day Committee on May 26, 2020 at 7:53 am

    Thank you to all who participated. A special thank you to Renee (singing of the National Anthem) and Mathew (the sounding of TAPS) for joining us. Also to HCAT TV and Holliston Reporter for the coverage.

    Remember.

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