Memorial Day in Holliston 2022

May 31, 2022 / Chris Cain /

Under a clear blue sky, a large marching contingent, and spectator-lined streets made Holliston’s observance of Memorial Day (formerly known as Decoration Day) an exceptional event for all involved. Below are some photos. Also, we have several photos from Ken Robinson as a separate post -> https://hollistonreporter.com/2022/05/memorial-day-a-photo-essay/

The young lady riding on the car is pointing to Charlie Nickerson – Holliston’s Oldest Veteran.

The parade approaches along Central Street on its way to Blair Square.

HHS’ Marching Band provided music and the all-important marching beat.

The Holliston Girl Scouts were out in force.

The parade stopped at Blair Square to place a wreath and fire a three-volley salute.

Veterans Lloyd Bernegger (L) and Paul Dechenes (R) salute after placing the wreath at Memorial Square.

(L-R) Select Board Vice-chair Ben Sparrell;, Select Board Clerk John Cronin; Officer of the Day Bobby Blair; VFW Chaplain Ron Turcotte; Fr. Mark Coiro; and Rev. Mark Peterson

The dignitaries are clapping in thanks to Tom Chipman who hung the flags along Washington St. and Mark Dellicker who repaired the halyard on the Town Hall flagpole.

Rev. Peterson provided the invocation. Chaplain Turcotte read the names of nine Holliston veterans who passed away since last Memorial Day. Mr. Sparrell spoke about the origin of this day back in 1945 and how important it is that through the years we never forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect us and our freedom. After a message from Bob Hopkins (see photo below), Fr. Coiro gave the benediction.

American Legion Post 47 Commander Steve Bradford reads a message from Bob Hopkins who had been chosen as Parade Marshal. Hopkins, who is under the weather, in his humble manner thanked the veterans for the honor and thanked the very active veteran community in Holliston. Bradford noted that Hopkins is one of those very active vets who’s always helping his fellow vets.

The Sutherland Pipe Band played “Amazing Grace” during the ceremony at Town Hall.

Buglers – Jennifer Andelman and Greta Wolfgang play Taps with an echo following the three rifle volleys.

Chris Cain

4 Comments

Steve Bradford on May 31, 2022 at 8:17 am

Thank you for the coverage.

Reply
David Clark on May 31, 2022 at 9:16 am

Growing up in Holliston, I always loved the Memorial Day parade – marched in it a time or two. I’m glad that the tradition lives on. Great Photos!

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Richard Chartrand on May 31, 2022 at 10:07 am

Holliston never forgets another great tribuute to our fallen heroes

Reply
Jackie Dellicker on June 1, 2022 at 3:54 pm

Miss you in the parade Richard! Jackie

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