Despite the wet weather causing the cancellation of Old Lyme’s traditional parade, more than 100 people still turned out for the Memorial Day ceremony held in Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School’s auditorium this morning. William Appleby, Commander of American Legion Post 41 was Master of Ceremonies.
Old Lyme Fire Department Chaplain Mervin F. Roberts gave a thought-provoking invocation exploring the connections between the Duck River Cemetery, the deceased laid to rest there and their contributions to society in so many ways during their lives.
Under the leadership of Choral Director Kristine Pekar, Lyme-Old Lyme High School’s Select Singers gave an stirring rendition of the national anthem during which all veterans present saluted.
The winners of the American Legion/VFW Essay Contest for fifth graders in Lyme and Old Lyme read their essays titled, “What Memorial Day Means to Me.” Andy Zelek, who attends Lyme Consolidated School (pictured above) was awarded the bronze medal as Second Runner-up.
Samantha Tan, who also attends Lyme Consolidated, was the First Runner-up and received the silver medal from Commander Appleby (left) accompanied by John Cody. (right).
Eli Brown, another Lyme Consolidated student, was the gold medal winner. Each of these students received a medal, a proclamation from the American Legion, a monetary award and will also have a flag flown in their honor over the Congress building in Washington DC.
In a special surprise, ‘The Voice’ finalist Braiden Sunshine sang ‘America the Beautiful’ and ‘Amazing Grace,’ for whick he received a standing ovation.
Commander Appleby introduced the 2015-16 Veteran of the Year (center).
Wrapping up the proceedings, the Reverend Mark Robinson of Saint Ann’s in Old Lyme gave the Benediction before the flag-bearers filed out of the auditorium.
Old Lyme First Selectwoman Bonnie Reemsnyder connected with, at left, State Senator Paul Formica (R-20th) and State Representative Devin Carney (R- 23rd) after the ceremony.
And finally …
‘They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.’