The annual Milford Memorial Day Ceremony is a time to give thanks and remember those who were lost while serving in the country’s armed forces. — MIKE FINNEY PHOTO
By Mike Finney
Milford Beacon
Received on Tuesday, May 24, 2016
Memorial Day is equated with the start of summer, trips to the beach and a time for relaxation with family and friends.
However, the annual Milford Memorial Day ceremony is a reminder of what the holiday is all about. It will take place on Monday, May 30, at 10 a.m. at the Milford Senior Center, 111 Park Avenue. It is expected to last about an hour and 15 minutes.
The theme for this year is “The Korean War,” though veterans of all wars and conflicts from all branches of the military will be recognized and honored, as well as those veterans who died while in service.
Charles Garrod, a Korean War veteran, is ceremony chairman this year. He has been the Delaware Department Commander of the Korean War Veterans Association.
Malcolm “Mac” Foster, who has been connected with Milford’s Veterans and Memorial Day events over the past 20 years, is stepping down. Rep. Harvey Kenton and Sen. Gary Simpson will be presenting him with House and Senate resolutions of appreciation.
“It really is an honor that just came to me,” Garrod said. “[Foster] had been doing this for years and now he is 92. I guess they got a younger guy now since I’m 82.”
He said Memorial Day is always an important date.
“I actually feel it’s very important for communities to have the opportunity to come together and honor our war dead,” Garrod said. “Without these kinds of ceremonies, children would not understand and older people wouldn’t have a chance to give the proper remembrance to those who gave all for our country.”
Mayor Bryan Shupe will give a welcoming speech for the second year. He said it is a privilege that he doesn’t take lightly.
David Perdue, pastor of the First Baptist Church in Milford, will provide the invocation.
Coast Guard Lt. Eric Hanson, the Marine Safety Detachment Supervisor at the Lewes station, is this year’s keynote speaker.
Veterans representing each of the five military services and the merchant marines will place a memorial flower on the remembrance wreath.
Shupe said it is a tradition that he is proud to be a part of.
“The representation from all branches of service, the sounds of the band and the tradition of honoring the fallen through the 21-gun salute and Taps, helps us to understand and be grateful for the sacrifices that make it possible for all of us to live freely every day,” he said.
Garrod said he hopes people will take some time to remember those who were lost and what the day truly represents.
“If war hasn’t touched you or hasn’t wronged your area, then you don’t quite have the feel of what Memorial Day is all about,” he said.