NORTH WILDWOOD ─ Mark Twain wrote: “Warm summer sun, shine kindly here, Warm summer wind, blow softly here. Green sod above, lie light, lie light. Good night, dear heart, good night.”
Although the epitaph was written for his daughter, the words applied to the fallen men and women of the armed forces. Despite rain, North Wildwood held its Memorial Day ceremony at the Knights of Columbus Hall May 30.
Emerald kilts, military khaki, and plenty of red-white-and-blue created a kaleidoscope of textures and colors within the hall. Mayor Patrick Rosenello’s words summed up the glory of the day: “It’s (Memorial Day) become a worldwide remembrance.”
Joseph A. Orlando, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5941 commander, opened by remarking how the service fell on the actual day designated for Memorial Day, May 30.
Orlando described Memorial Day as “a day of mourning” across the United States. He called the post chaplain to continue in prayer.
The prayer spoke of “justice and comfort” for those departed.
Orlando read the names of post members who died since last Memorial Day and invited others to call out names of those whom they wished to have remembered.
The familiar strains of “Taps” followed, its notes filling the air as several in attendance shed tears.
After the Pledge of Allegiance, Dolly McGee sang “The Star Spangled Banner” and invited all to join her. Orlando acknowledged various dignitaries, including VFW President Bill Davenport.
Mayor Patrick Rosenello gave a few reflections for the occasion. Rosenello thanked all veterans. He remarked on the importance of remembering “those who died for our country.”
According to Rosenello, 25 cemeteries across the globe are the final resting place of Americans who “never came home.”
Their numbers range from North Africa and Vietnam to the quiet fields of Europe. Ceremonies for the fallen were held at those scattered cemeteries and, in Rosenello’s words “Says something about America’s role” in the world. “It’s become a worldwide remembrance,” Rosenello said. He then thanked the survivors and their families for their sacrifice.
Orlando concluded by urging everyone not to “take freedom for granted.” He commended those in attendance for observing their “civic obligation.”
Although America has moved passed the Civil War, Orlando quoted then Maj. Gen. James A. Garfield, who presided at the first Memorial Day in 1868: “the highest virtues of men.”
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.
Dennisville – As a parent of a Tech student it would be great if the school would update their staff directory. So many old staff still listed and no new teachers listed. What gives?
