By Andrew DeCredico
Memorial Day weekend is known as the unofficial start of summer in South Jersey, however that isn’t what Memorial Day is about. Memorial Day is the day where we honor those veterans who were lost throughout the history of this country. Those who gave their lives to serve this country will always be remembered.
On Monday May 29th 2017, Sea Isle City held its annual Memorial Day service. Located at the memorial on the corner of JFK Boulevard and Landis Avenue, the service is a time to remember our loved ones. “We are here today to thank not only today’s veterans,” says Cape May County Sheriff Gary Schaffer. “but the veterans of the past, present, and future.”
In attendance were hundreds of listeners including many veterans, loved ones, and others wishing to share in the memorial service. Many members of the community were honored for their service, and many past service members of the community were honored as well. After placing wreaths for the fallen, children in attendance were asked to join Mayor Leonard Desiderio on stage. The mayor made sure to point out that these children will be some of the people serving our country when they are adults.
When the mayor was finished, the children stayed up front to sing America The Beautiful with Kathy Wilson, who sang the National Anthem in the beginning of the program. The community all joined in, creating a very special moment. Immediately following, there was a roll call that honored veterans that made the ultimate sacrifice. Taps was played by Sea Isle City Boy Scouts Forest Wan and Mason Blizzard. Also played was “My Buddy”. This song was a recording of the late Russell Briggs who traditionally sang at this event for many years prior to his death.
Finally, a tribute to the Naval deceased was given. Sea Isle Boy Scout Troop 76 escorted a floral tribute to the ocean at JFK Boulevard, where a salute was given. This was the final event of the service. As we go about our daily lives, this event reminds us to think of those who have served our country in the past, those who are still serving our country today, and those who will serve our country in the future.
