A traditional observance honors sacrifices of fallen

SHARON — As they have done for generations, townspeople gathered on either side of Main Street to view the Memorial Day parade on Monday, May 29, and then move on to the Veterans’ Memorial by the clock tower for wreath-laying, rifle salute, prayers, patriotic music, and speeches.

Under perfectly sunny skies and a refreshing breeze, the parade brought out polished emergency vehicles, and cars, both antique and classic, honor guard, veterans, a contingent from the Sharon Center School, decorated bicycles, a motorcycle, tractors, and more.  All were cheered by onlookers some of whom waved small flags with enthusiasm.

At the Veterans’ Memorial, prayers were offered by the Rev. Sun Yong Lee of Sharon’s United Methodist Church.

“We gather to remember the sacrifices made by those who served our country to defend our freedom,” said Lee.

Guiding the ceremony was Bob Loucks, Commander of American Legion Post #126.

Marine Sergeant Tate Begley, with a long family history of service spanning four generations, gave the address, noting that less than 3% of Americans have served in the military.

“Our nation will always need heroes,” Begley said, speaking of the names engraved on the Veterans’ Memorial. “Because of these fallen heroes, we have a today and tomorrow.”

“Guide us and make us worthy of the sacrifices of the fallen,” Lee said in her closing prayer.

It took a team effort to raise the flag on Memorial Day. Photo by Leila Hawken

Photo by Leila Hawken

Photo by Leila Hawken

It took a team effort to raise the flag on Memorial Day. Photo by Leila Hawken