May 26, Memorial Day 2008 dawned bright, clear and cool, with a light breeze. A day to remember all those who gave their lives for our freedom. Many local organizations gathered for this annual remembrance. The photos that follow show a small portion of the day. Many hours work went in advance of the day to assure that all would run smoothly. Click here for some background on Memorial Day.
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As the units of the parade start to assemble, members of the local Knights of Columbus, Columbiettes, and 4th Degree Knights gather for a group photo.
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Also members of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts start to line up for the start of the parade.
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Keeping very busy is our own Mary, who organizes the parade, memorial celebration, and was the keynote speaker for the day. And in her spare time...spare time?
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Southbury resident and State Representative Art O'Neill joined us as he does every year to honor all those who have given all they had to give in our defense.
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Members of the Southbury Clergy Association make time for a group shot. Shown (Left to Right) are Rev. James Welty (The Community Chapel), Fr. Joseph Donnelly (Sacred Heart Church), Rev. Vladimir Aleandro (Christ The Savior Orthodox Church), Rev. Douglas Miller (South Britain Congregational), Rev. Walter Pitman (United Church Of Christ), Rabbi Eric Polokoff (B'Nai Israel Synagogue).
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The group that is often seen as the "Visible" Knights of Columbus, the members of the Fourth Degree Assembly go over a few last minute details.
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Recently, there have been some changes in the National Guard and Reserve units in the area. The usual flyover was changed to include helicopters, seen here passing over the units of the parade on Main Street South.
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Local Scouts and their leader salute the colors as they pass by.
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As the parade wound its way to the Memorial Park for the ceremony, Willie Nininger on guitar, and John Khuner on keyboard entertained the crowd with a variety of patriotic music.
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Adding to the music of the day, the Pomperaug High School Band played for those attending the ceremony, including the National Anthem, and Taps.
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Harmon Andrews, Master of Ceremonies for the day, introduces the assembled dignitaries on the reviewing stand.
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| State Representative O'Neill reads the official proclamation of Memorial Day, signed by Governor M. Jody Rell.
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Rev. Vladimir Aleandro (Christ The Savior Orthodox Church), invokes the blessing of God on the Assembly, and prays for peace for those who have died in all the nation's conflicts.
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Mary Korsu, Keynote Speaker, reminded all those in attendance of the true meaning of memorial Day, using examples from her own family of those who have served.
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Mary is presented with a plaque honoring her for her years of service to the veterans in town.
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As the flag is raised to the top of the flag pole at the conclusion of the days activities, all hands render a salute to "Old Glory", and the many soldiers, sailors, and airmen who have served with pride.
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Rev. Douglas Miller (South Britain Congregational), blesses the assembled crowd in the final benediction.
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