Battlefield Park Memorial Day Service honors Colonial-era soldiers

The Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance held its annual Memorial Day Remembrance ceremony Monday at the grave of the four unknown soldiers in Battlefield Park. The service began with an invocation given by Pastor Ali Trowbridge of the Caldwell Presbyterian Church. Lake George American Legion Post 374, The Lake George Fire Department and Fort William Henry reenactors participated in the service.

“Today is primarily about our four unknown soldiers,” says Alliance President John DiNuzzo.  “Memorial Day is a special time throughout America to remember those who gave their lives on behalf of freedom. These four died in the first skirmish of one of the first battles of the French and Indian War, in fact, the first victorious skirmish, the first victorious battle for the British back in 1755… so they are very, very early heroes and their sacrifice kind of paved the way for the courage that has been displayed throughout our history since then.”   

New York State Assembly Member Matt Simpson gave the keynote address. “These four unknown soldiers here in the Battlefield Park are the oldest group of unknown soldiers recognized by the federal government,” says Simpson. “Years ago, these patriots were buried with no formal service or recognition of their service to our country for their ultimate sacrifice. That is why we are here today. To pay our respects and keep their legacy alive.”

Simpson pointed to the area’s rich history saying, “The French and Indian War started in 1755. Many of those skirmishes occurred right here in the basin of Lake George. These battles and the fight to protect our country exhibited American heroism that continues today. The patriotism demonstrated by the Provincials is akin to the services men and women throughout our free nation provide every day guarding our homeland to protect our freedom.”

Fort William Henry, Fort Ticonderoga and other historic sites are outward signs of this history, Simpson observed, but much of the history, says Simpson, is hidden. In 2019, a contractor uncovered the remains of more than 40 American Revolution soldiers in the Village of Lake George. These remains are currently being held at the New York State Museum in Albany.

“The Town of Lake George has undertaken the Herculean effort of organizing a proper burial right here in the shadow of the Battle of Lake George statue,” says Simpson, and he applauds this effort. DiNuzzo noted that New York Senator Chuck Schumer has also endorsed the project, calling on the U.S. Secretary of the Army to assist with funding.  

Historian Mark Silo also spoke at the Memorial Day Remembrance, giving an overview of important military actions the Battlefield Park grounds saw during the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.

Following the speeches, members of Lake George American Legion Post 374 placed a wreath on the grave of the unknown soldiers. The ceremony concluded with a musket salute by Fort William Henry reenactors and the playing of taps by Lake George High School music teacher Amy Baker.