A small group gathers outside the American Legion in Northfield to remember the veterans who served in America’s wars on Memorial Day. Photo by Mary Comiskey, The Northfield News Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer season. Families get together to enjoy the first cook-out, to open camp, or enjoy the first camping trip. There is so much to celebrate here in America. We are free to choose how to enjoy ourselves.

On Monday morning the members of the American Legion gathered with a handful of local citizens to remember the final sacrifice of the young men from Northfield who gave their lives for our freedom.

There was a short ceremony led by Auxiliary President Valerie Drown that included a greeting, the pledge of allegiance. Shawna and Samatha Herring led singing of the Star Spangled Banner. The Roll of the Dead, whose names are forever inscribed in our hearts and on the stark granite that stands proudly outside the American Legion Post was respectfully read. Gloria Drown, Legion Chaplain, tearfully read a prayer in remembrance of our lost heroes.

The group solemnly walked to the Main Street Bridge where a wreath was placed in remembrance of all those soldiers lost at sea. The flag bearer led the procession to the center of the Common where the Monument where the names of the soldiers who served in the Civil War are listed. The poem, “Flander’s Field” was read by Renee Herring, followed by a reading which cautioned all “never to forget”. Taps was read. Everyone was invited to a refreshing luncheon in the Legion.

Many citizens followed the tradition of decorating the graves of those who had gone before. Too many flags fly in our own sacred fields. Hopefully everyone remembered to mark the moment of silence at 3:00 P.M. We must not forget.