Kirk Thurston, Area two commander of the American Legion, and his wife, Trisha Thurston, of American Legion Post 24 in Rumford, carry a wreath during Memorial Day ceremonies Monday in Rumford.
American Legion Post 24 Commander William Petrie salutes as the Memorial Day ceremony in Rumford concluded with the playing of taps Monday.
Local Daisy Scouts and their leader marched in their first parade during Memorial Day in Rumford and Mexico on Monday.
Mexico Police Chief Roy Hodsdon, right, and members of the Police Explorers color guard participate in Memorial Day ceremonies for Rumford and Mexico on Monday.
RUMFORD/MEXICO — A parade and ceremonies at the Rotary Memorial Green in Rumford and the Veterans Memorial Green in Mexico marked Memorial Day observances Monday.
Under a light drizzle Monday morning, Napoleon Ouellette American Legion Post 24 of Rumford held a parade from Memorial Bridge to the Rotary Memorial Green.
Mexico Town Manager Jack Gaudet, who served 36 years in the U.S. Army, was guest speaker, reminding people that “Memorial Day is not to be confused with Veterans Day.”
“Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans,” he said. “Memorial Day is a day to recognize and remember the things we often take for granted, but are the very things that deserve our gratitude.”
He asked that people remember the men and women who lost their lives in service for the United States.
“Harry S. Truman said, ‘Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid,'” Gaudet said. “‘They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.’
“While we recognize this day for the fallen, we should all take a moment to recognize and honor the families whose brothers, sisters, sons and daughters died in service of our country,” he said.
He asked for applause for Gold Star families in attendance.
The wreath-laying ceremony was performed by Kirk Thurston, Area 2 commander for the American Legion, and his wife, Trisha Thurston, of American Legion Post 24 in Rumford.
Immediately following the parade, Post 24 hosted an open house with refreshments for the children who participated in the parade. For the adults who participated in the parade, refreshments were served at the VFW Hall.
bfarrin@sunmediagroup.net
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