Photo by Lester Smith
First Selectman Melissa Mack made the opening remarks.
Those who commented about Suffield’s Memorial Day this year all agreed that, while they were disappointed that rain had cancelled the customary parade, the ceremony at Suffield High was the best ever. The big auditorium was well over half full, and First Selectman Melissa Mack set the spirit of the event when she reminded us that this was the tenth anniversary of Marine Cpl. Stephen Bixler’s heroic death, Suffield’s most recent loss among those who have given their lives in military service to their country. Justin Donnelly, subbing as Officer of the Day, did the announcing, Eagle Scout John Riley led us in the Pledge, Rev. Scott Seabury gave the prayer and the High School band played well, in spite of being overheated in their heavy uniforms. Three more young people did the traditional readings, including Madison D’Ostuni’s particularly good rendering of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, from the war that gave birth to Memorial Day.
Photo by Lester Smith
Principal speaker Samuel Beamon tells of combat companions lost.
The principal speaker was a surprise. Marine veteran Samuel Beamon of Waterbury, past Commandant of the Connecticut Marine Corps League, had been invited by Town Assessor Helen Totz; she knew him through her own veterans connections. His presentation referred to his own combat experience and the friends he has lost, and he, like First Selectmen Mack, mentioned Stephen Bixler. He included some insightful comments about our country’s poor treatment of Viet Nam vets upon their return. Beamon was perhaps a bit more down to earth than some speakers in previous years and was very well received by those present.
Photo by Lester Smith
Drum Majorette Calie Flanagan leads the SHS band.
USMC Maj. William Moryto set the memorial wreath onstage, the VFW Honor Guard fired their Salute to the Dead out beyond the open stage door, taps was sounded and Sue Hastings, in excellent voice, closed the ceremony with the Star Spangled Banner.
Suffield does remember.
Photo by Guy Balsamo
Youth Services Officer Tom Kieselback and young Johnny Balsamo share a moment after the ceremony.
Photo by Guy Balsamo
Major William Moryto waits offstage with the wreath he will place.
Photo by Guy Balsamo
The flag at Suffield’s Soldier’s Monument rests at half mast on Memorial Day.