Each year, we gather with pride to witness the tremendous outpouring of support from so many in our community on Memorial Day. This morning’s commemoration at World War II Veterans Memorial Park in Whiting served as a moving tribute in honor of those who bravely gave everything while serving our Country.
During his keynote address, Mayor Joseph Hankins proudly issued a Proclamation recognizing the significance of the day. “As a community, we take pride in honoring the memory of those we lost and those who sacrificed their lives in defense of our nation,” said Mayor Hankins. “Memorial Day is a day of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude, and I encourage all residents to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by our military men and women.”
The proceedings continued with moving speeches by Veterans Advisory Committee Chairman Roger Grenier, who spoke about the recent presentation of Hometown Hero banners for service members with a connection to Manchester Township High School. Continuing the program was a speech by Veterans Advisory Committee member Bob Jacobs, patriotic musical performances, a martial arts demonstration, presentation of wreaths by local emergency response and civic organizations, and a somber rendition of “Taps.”
Joining Mayor Hankins at the ceremony were Council President Roxanne Conniff, Vice President James Vaccaro, Councilmember Craig Wallis, Councilmember Sandy Drake, members of the Manchester Veterans Advisory Committee, and County Commissioner Robert Arace.
Thank you to the Manchester Recreation staff for organizing this event each year, the Public Works crew for set up support, and to all of the residents, first responders, active and retired United States Service Members, and civic groups that were in attendance.
We also thank all those who participated in the program, including the Manchester Police Honor Guard, Manchester Volunteer Fire Department, Ridgeway Vol. Fire Co. #1 Sta. 34, Whiting Fire Company Sta. 33, Manchester Division of Emergency Services, Veterans Advisory Committee Chairman Roger Grenier, Veterans Advisory Committee member Bob Jacobs, Rev. David Rittinger of Whiting Bible Church, Manchester High School Marching Band, Manchester High School ROTC, Master Manny’s Kum Sung, and musical performers Marisiya Goins and Athens Licitra.
Your contributions made this Memorial Day commemoration a special community event for the many residents and honored guests in attendance. May we all continue to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Country.