A solemn observance marks Memorial Day in Highland

By Wilfred Jones
Posted 5/31/23

As the month of May draws to a close, the community of Highland came together to honor and remember the brave veterans and fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. …

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A solemn observance marks Memorial Day in Highland

Posted

As the month of May draws to a close, the community of Highland came together to honor and remember the brave veterans and fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. The commemorative event featured a solemn parade and a moving memorial ceremony.

Lloyd Town Supervisor Dave Plavchak commenced the ceremony by leading the attendees in reciting the pledge of allegiance. Following the pledge, the Highland High School Band delivered a poignant rendition of the National Anthem, while Pastor Joe Kurry from Calvary Chapel led a prayer.

Another prayer was offered by Joe Cooper, who expressed gratitude to Almighty God for the brave comrades who laid down their lives for the nation.
“May they rest in peace, and may your eternal light forever shine upon them,” Cooper solemnly prayed. He also beseeched that the people cherish and value the freedom bestowed upon them, recognizing the high price paid for its acquisition. Cooper concluded by praying for the well-being of the veterans, law enforcement officers and first responders across the land.

Following the heartfelt prayers, Town Justice Terry Elia stepped forward to render a salute in honor of the fallen soldiers. As part of the solemn tribute, a memorial wreath was laid before the town’s square, adjacent to the memorial flag.

In his speech, Elia provided historical context, stating, “Memorial Day originated near the Civil War era to pay due respect to veterans from previous conflicts.” Pausing for a moment, he continued, “Today, we, the living, pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation, as well as to those who have peacefully departed from this mortal realm. Let us honor the memory of these brave individuals and renew our pledge of loyalty to this country and its ideals.”

Expressing gratitude, Elia thanked all those who contributed to the parade and ceremony. Notably, Nat Trapani was recognized and awarded as the Veteran of the Month.

During the commemorative event, several soldiers volunteered to share their personal stories, recounting their experiences of returning home after serving in Afghanistan.

The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards to the outstanding parade floats and bands that participated earlier in the Memorial Day parade.

As the ceremony neared its end, doves were released, symbolizing the fallen soldiers who were once residents of Highland. Following the dove release, the American Legion executed a solemn 21-gun salute, accompanied by a heartfelt rendition of the patriotic song “God Bless America,” concluding the ceremony on a poignant note.

The Highland community came together on this Memorial Day to honor and remember the sacrifices of the brave men and women who selflessly served their country, ensuring that their memory and legacy remain eternally cherished.