May 31, Memorial Day 2010 dawned bright, clear and warm, 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 begin to gather.
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Our flag bearers from the local Knights of Columbus, Council 5066. Our current Grand Knight, and a past Grand Knight did the honors.
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Local and state civic leaders were there to lend their presence to commemorate our war dead.
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The Columbiettes joined the Knights of Columbus.
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Fr. Joe Donnelly of Sacred Heart Church has a few minutes to spend with other members of the clergy from Southbury.
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Sr. Pat, our Pastoral Associate, stopped by to say hello before joining in the line of march.
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Where would any band be without the beat of the big bass drums to keep everyone in step. These are waiting for the members of the Pomperaug High School Band to pick them up and march off.
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The Forth Degree Knights of Columbus from the Southbury Assembly arrive at the Memorial Park near the head of the parade.
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As the parade wound its way to the Memorial Park for the ceremony, Willie Nininger on guitar entertained the crowd with a variety of patriotic music.
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Massed colors of the various marching groups line up before the start of the Memorial Day ceremonies.
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Mary from Sacred Heart has been organizing the Memorial Day events for several years now. At the start of the ceremonies, she introduces the events of the day, and the Master of Ceremonies. Another great day, Mary. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication.
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Rev. Pitman from the United Church of Christ opend the day with a prayer for those who we honor.
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State Representative Art O'Neill reads the governors official proclamation declaring Memorial Day, May 31, 2010.
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The Pomperaug High School Band played a variety of patriotic airs, including the National Anthem, and Taps.
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The tradition is that at noon the nations flag is raised from half staff, where it honors the war dead, to full staff. Here is the flag, proudly blowing in the free air of Southbury.
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Our principal speaker for the day was Navy Chief Xxxxxx Xxxxx, who spoke eloquently about the sacrifices made not only by those in the military, but also by those left behind to keep the home going in times of great stress.
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As the wreaths are laid at the various monuments, all hands render a sharp "Hand Salute".
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Rev. Scott Nessel (Saint James Lutheran Church), blesses the assembled crowd in the final benediction.
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