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Solemn ceremonies in Cornwall

Solemn ceremonies in Cornwall

Tim Naylor presents the VFW Citizenship Award to Katherine Washburn, May 27.

Riley Klein

CORNWALL — A morning of thoughtful remembrances went on despite the rain in Cornwall on Memorial Day.

The day began with ceremonies at North Cornwall Cemetery and the covered bridge in West Cornwall. The scheduled parade was replaced with an indoor gathering at Cornwall Consolidated School.

Veteran and Master of Ceremonies Dave Cadwell spoke on the significance of the day in Cornwall. He thanked the veterans seated behind him for their service and spoke fondly of three more who were notably not seated on the stage.

Cornwall veterans John Franklin Green, Robert Andrew Parker, and Jerry Doolittle died last year, but their sacrifices and dedication to their community was remembered.

“These three men traveled the world in their productive lifetimes, but all three would return to their homes that they loved here in Cornwall,” said Cadwell.

The annual VFW Citizenship Award, presented by Berkshire VFW Post 9243, was given to Katherine Washburn, who has placed approximately 15,000 flags at veteran graves over the last 35 years.

Melody Matsudaira closed the ceremony at CCS with a flawless rendition of “Taps” played on trumpet.

The carnival that typically follows Cornwall’s Memorial Day parade was canceled due to weather.

Riley Klein

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