Memorial Day in Salisbury

SALISBURY — A brilliant sun and cool breeze rewarded the large crowd that turned out in the center of town for the Memorial Day parade Monday. Friends, families and community members gathered to remember those soldiers who served in past wars and those who are serving today.

The veterans were applauded by onlookers as they marched and drove down  Route 44 toward the cemetery. They were followed by the Salisbury Band and groups of youngsters from various recreational groups such as Salisbury Youth Hockey and the Brownies. The Salisbury Central School Band enthusiastically followed, marching proudly as their families and peers cheered them on.

With a backdrop of shady trees and lush grass, the memorial ceremony began. After an opening prayer and the reading of The Gettysburg Address by Jeffrey Nasiatka, the Salisbury Band played a moving hymn to begin the recognition of those who have died. The reading of the dead followed, bringing powerful meaning to the scene.

When the Rev. John Carter of St. John’s Church read the words, “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me,� from Psalm 23, it captured the mood of the ceremony.

U.S. Army Specialist James Brazee closed the ceremony with powerful words. He spoke with grace, stating, “It is not just on one day that you should think about the American fighting soldier.�

They have given our nation their lives, he said, and to them we should be forever grateful.