Editorial

Memorial Day

Memorial Day has two parts and they are intertwined.

The most important, of course, is honoring the soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Their dedication, and their families,' allows us to speak, assemble, bear arms, to remain free.

The community respect for that dedication and sacrifice was evident this weekend as I attended the Memorial Day ceremonies in New Gloucester and in Gray. Heads were uncovered, salutes were crisp, hands were placed over hearts. More than one eye was teared up at the wreath laying and at Taps being played, including mine.

All in all, it felt good to observe the community come together in united purpose, acknowledgement of our military, but more important, compassion and esteem for the individual men and women who live among us as veterans. Their commitment sustains those who have died for not just the idea of community, but the fact of it.

Which brings me to the second part of Memorial Day- community. Before and after the ceremonies, and during the parade, community happened. People greeted, chatted, said hello, sat together, campaigned for office, helped our kids, all in all, knit together a community tapestry full of color and liveliness. This is the very thing that our soldier serve for, die for. Us, doing this.

Thanks to all who organized the parades and ceremonies and who participated in them. Thanks to all who came out and showed their support for our veterans. It was a very good day, and made me glad once again that I live here, among such fine people.

Quotes:

Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill,
that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship,
support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and the
success of liberty.
--John F. Kennedy Inaugural Address Washington, D.C. January 20, 1961

Although no sculptured marble should rise to their memory, nor engraved stone bear record of their deeds, yet will their remembrance be as lasting as the land they honored. ~Daniel Webster