story and photos by Christopher Martin
On Saturday morning, May 24, between the sporadic rain and the threatening clouds, almost 200 members of the community gathered at the Brockport Area Veterans Club (BAVC) with members of the Harsch-Crisp-Seaman Post 379 of the American Legion for their annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at the clubhouse on West Avenue.
The crowd was welcomed to the club by Patricia Connors, Mistress of Ceremonies and a board member with the BAVC. In her opening remarks, Ms. Connors spoke of the meaning of the day and introduced local dignitaries which included state, county and local elected officials in attendance. Members of the Brockport Fire Department were also present.
The presentation of our Nation’s Colors was conducted by Scouts from Troop 111 while the Brockport High School Band played the “Star-Spangled Banner.” This was immediately followed by an Invocation, the American Legion Ceremony and the American Creed by Jack Tangen, President of the BAVC. Ms. Connors then led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance offering a prayer soon after.
After a brief moment of silence for the fallen heroes, the American Legion Auxiliary presented a patriotic wreath escorted by members of Scout Troop 111.
Members of the American Legion were at the ready. They provided a solemn rifle salute before the lowering of the American Flag. A lone trumpeter could be heard in the distance playing “Taps” while the flag was lowered. After another moment of silence to reflect, the flag was risen to “The Colors” played by the BHS band.
The keynote address was given by veteran and NYS Assemblyman Steve Hawley. In a heartfelt speech, he reflected on what the day means to him and his family. He encouraged everyone present to reflect on a personal level the memory of someone they know or knew and on all those they didn’t know who never returned home to their families from the ravages of war.
Closing remarks were shared by William Fine (BAVC) and President Tangen offered the benediction. Ms. Connors invited the community to stay and listen to the band play and the Scouts from Troop 111 retired the colors as the ceremony came to a close.
