Veterans honored in Memorial Day Parade
Published on May 30th, 2001
STONEHAM, MA - After gazing up at the sky, many wondered if the weather would allow the Annual Stoneham Memorial Day Parade to take place. Fortunately, only cloudy skies and humid air prevailed throughout the morning and hundreds of Stonehamites filled the streets to honor those brave men and women who died protecting our nation's freedom.
On Monday, May 28th, Stoneham came out in large numbers to pay tribute to their veterans with a patriotic parade, special ceremonies at St. Patricks Cemetery and Lindenwood Cemetery, and a closing ceremony at Town Hall. After a short ceremony at St. Patricks Cemetery, dozens of small children lined the streets anxiously waiting for the parade to begin. Parade Marshal James Hall led the parade through the streets of Stoneham and hundreds of smiling townspeople. On Elm Street and Main Street, Stonehamites happily greeted the veterans, police officers, Brownie Troops, Cub Scouts, Little League Teams, and firefighters on their engines. Melchiorri's Dixiland Hobo's of Natick and the Bunker Hill Pipe Band were among the many bands in the parade this year. Also, the Stoneham High School and Middle School Bands greatly pleased the crowd.
Susan and Stephen Columbus were among the many proud parents at the parade. Their son marched with his Little League team this year. "It was a blast. A great time," Stephen Columbus said. When Stephen was asked what his favorite part of the parade was, he answered "The baseball players" with a smile.
At Lindenwood Cemetery on Montvale Avenue, groups gathered around "Veteran's Circle" for the reading of "The Gettysburg Address," a wreath presentation, and the playing of "Taps." Shortly after, the parade circled Stoneham Square and approached Town Hall, where Stonehamites lined the street waiting for a special closing ceremony to begin.
After finishing her march at Town Hall, Stoneham traffic director Pat O'Callaghan was happy to see a lot of recognizable faces in the parade, especially in the Brownie Troops and Cub Scouts. “I enjoy the parade every year. Last year was terrific. There was a hot crowd, but this year I was a little disappointed because a lot of people seemed to worry about the weather," O'Callaghan said.
Once the ceremony began at Town Hall, Secretary/-Treasurer of the Memorial Day Parade, Joseph Desisto, welcomed the assembly under a sunny sky. Among the numerous honored guests were State Representatives Paul C. Casey and Michael E. Festa, and Chairman of the Memorial Day Parade Committee, Fred Mosley, who has been connected with the ceremony for 55 years.
After the national colors were posted at the front of Town Hall, Stoneham Brownie Troop #1372 led the "Pledge of Allegiance" under the direction of troop leader Linda Corapi. Rev. John E. French, Pastor of the First Baptist Church, gave the invocation and speeches were made shortly after.
Anthony Kennedy, Chairman of Board of Selectmen, greeted the town and addressed the importance of Memorial Day and our nation's freedom. Kennedy spoke about enjoying our freedom by building our community, state, and country.
Guest Speaker Lt. Colonel Gerald Slack of the U.S. Marine Corps addressed the audience with a moving speech and brought attention to the number of individuals who have died in service to their country. "In the 226 years since our initial fight for independence, 1,150,000 individuals have made that supreme sacrifice," Slack said. "Today, again we commemorate the sacrifice of the long line of Americans who have insured our freedom with their lives. We do so honestly, reverently, and proudly. To do anything less is unthinkable...Without their sacrifice over the long years, we would not be able to stand here, proud and free," Slack continued.
The last speaker of the day was Mike Flynn, Commander of the American Legion Post #115. Flynn reminded the audience not to take for granted the privilege of saluting the American flag. "You are saluting these veterans because they gave so much for you. Many gave the ultimate sacrifice, which is why we are here today. So the next time you hear our national anthem, turn and face the nearest American flag, place your hand over your heart, and proudly show your affection and respect," Flynn said.
Also, during the ceremony at the Town Hall, Ladies Auxiliary and their escorts decorated war monuments while Bob MacMillan played "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes. The Arlington Catholic Class Act Singers, under the direction of Barbara Morash, delighted the group with "The Star Spangled Banner" and "Shout for Joy." Also, the Stoneham High School Band played "Taps" for the audience.
At the end of the Town Hall ceremony, the colors were retired and Rev. French gave the benediction. Also, Desisto thanked everyone for coming out for the parade. "We were blessed with a wonderful day. We are very grateful for that. The parade was bigger and better this year. I think that this Memorial Day message has to continue. It's our duty and obligation," Desisto said.
The Memorial Day parade was a great success this year and fortunately, the weather allowed for a proper and respectful tribute to the veterans, who gave up so much for our country.
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