Under cloudy skies, a crowd gathered in Shepard Park today to remember and honor slain members of the U.S. Military. “Comrades, this day is sacred with the almost visible presence of those who have gone before us,” said American Legion Post 374 Commander Randy Powell. “May the ceremonies of today deepen our reverence for our departed friends and comrades. Let us renew our pledge of loyalty to our country and its flag. Let us resolve by word and deed to emphasize the privilege and duties of patriotism.”
The Lake George Memorial Day observance began with a parade led by Grand Marshall Denny Galloway. Falling in behind the American Legion Post marchers were the Galloway Gaelic Pipes, the Lake George Fire Department and Auxiliary, Girl Scouts, Daisies and Boy Scouts.
Gold Star Parents Cindy and Bob Roberts attended the ceremony. The Roberts lost their daughter, SGT. Kristie Roberts, in August 2012. SGT. Roberts served as a medic in the Army National Guard.
The Lake George American Legion Post 374 has been holding Memorial Day ceremonies every year since 1921. Today’s ceremony began with Post Adjutant Gary Vernum presenting Grand Marshall Denny Galloway with a certificate, signed by the National Commander, National Adjutant and post officers, recognizing Galloway’s 70-year membership in the American Legion. He is the oldest continuing member of Post 374. “I couldn’t ask for a better neighborhood, a better place to live in this whole continent,” Galloway told the crowd. “Thank you for your day, It’s nice to be honored, and,” he added, “recognize a veteran in your life.”
Also speaking at the ceremony was State Assemblyman Dan Stec. He noted that while it is appropriate to view Memorial Day as “…a time for families and friends to gather… for enjoying the good weather and the start of summer and barbecue and whatnot…” he noted that veterans make it possible for us to enjoy these freedoms. “I think it’s wonderful that there are so many people here today to stop and pause and remember what Memorial Day is all about and the sacrifices that were made on our behalf over the years to make sure our nation remains the free beacon of light and hope that it is around the world.”
The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths and flowers on the Veterans Memorial followed by a mournful rendition of Taps. Members of the Warrensburg American Legion Post 446 Rifle Squad fired a salute over Lake George. The Lake George Junior High Band played “Oh, Canada” and “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the Galloway Gaelic Pipes performed “Amazing Grace.”
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