Memorial Day ceremonies bring out the town


 

PINE PLAINS — The lines of spectators were three and four deep along Main Street Monday, as the town awaited the beginning of the Memorial Day parade. Nobody, however, seemed to mind waiting a few minutes for the marchers to appear, since the day was warm, bright and sunny, a relief after the cool weather this spring, and all could take the opportunity to catch up with their neighbors. Babies who, with their proud parents, were attending the town’s Memorial Day services for the first time were admired by all, and old friends who have been separated by the winter weather took the time to become reacquainted.

The honor guard and veterans, followed by the Stissing Mountain High School band, led the way for a colorful array of marchers, from the Cub Scouts and Brownies, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, to the Pine Plains Hose Company, Stanfordville Fire Company and the Pine Plains Softball League. The town’s emergency equipment, both fire and ambulance, was also on display.

Master of Ceremonies George Keeler, commander of Shacameco American Legion Post 426, introduced Olivia Stewart, who led the Pledge of Allegiance. Then, town Supervisor Gregg Pulver spoke, saying that it’s the people who bring importance to the Memorial Day ceremony each year. He emphasized the dedication of many in the community who work hard not just this year, but year after year, to make the event special, such as those, like Sid Byron, who have put in more than 40 years marching in the honor guard. He also thanked the people who come out to support the Memorial Day ceremonies each year, in all kinds of weather, showing their respect for those who served.

"This is not just the first holiday of summer," Pulver said. "It’s a time to stop and think about what Memorial Day means, about honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we can be here today and celebrate this day."

Keeler asked that all assembled "remember our comrades, those who are serving and those who have served, whether you agree or disagree with our government’s policy."

He noted that the American flag flying at the Clocktower Monday was sent from Afghanistan by "hometown boy" Brian Coons. Flowers were then placed on the monument, and Keeler invited all to join together at Evergreen Cemetery for the service honoring the fallen. There were heart-felt prayers, a gun salute, playing of the "Star Spangled Banner" by the high school band, and the answer and call playing of Taps, which was particularly well done.

Emily Henry and Harriet Joyce, who grew up in Pine Plains, return every year for the Memorial Day ceremonies.

"We’re up at the lake now," said Joyce, "but we come back for this. We have been coming to Memorial Day here for more than 60 years. This town knows how to do it right." They made a donation for some American Legion poppies to Norma Keeler, who offered them to all from a basket she carried through the crowd.

Dennis Williams watched the parade return along North Main Street to the Legion Hall from the cemetery with his 5-year-old daughter, Evelynn.

"We live right around the corner," he said. "It’s for events like this one that I’m so glad we live right here and can come out and be a part of them."

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