×

A Time To Remember

Town of Poland Recognizes Memorial Day

The Randolph American Legion Post 181 firing squad is pictured. P-J Photos by Rose Mary Carver

KENNEDY — Cloudy skies could not dim the importance of the Memorial Day observance in Kennedy. Just before the parade lined up, the sun broke through, once again giving its blessing to the day’s remembrance. Residents lined the route to witness the spectacle.

The parade stepped off with wreathbearer Robert Swanson leading the way, followed by Randolph American Legion Post 181 firing squad/color guard. Master of Ceremonies Terry Walker came next, with guest speaker Master Chief Clifford Hotchkiss being driven by Roland Swanson after him. Other veterans followed. The Chautauqua County Dairy Princess and her court had a patriotic float. Kennedy Fire Department Queen Rachel Baglia rode in on their miniature fire truck, driven by Ed Hoene.

Historical flags denoting the different versions of our national symbol through the generations were carried by local students. George and Martha Washington, portrayed by Rick and Joan Swanson, carried flowers to honor those who served. Boys State representatives Ben Deperna and Zach Boardman walked the parade route. The Falconer Central School Marching Band and Color Guard presented a colorful and patriotic performance as they marched along. Local boy scout and girl scout troops added flags and other decorations to their appearance in the parade. Pastor Jennifer Delahoy of the Kennedy First United Methodist Church and Rev. Michael Herdzik of New Beginnings Baptist Church walked along and encouraged those attending.

Members of the group “Common Ground,” vocalists for the service, rode along the route. Town officials walked behind and waved to the crowd. The Chautauqua County Humane Society was a big hit as usual with its animals and caregivers, this year including a homemade train made from barrels that animals and people could ride in. Ross Grange #305 had a simple float that spoke volumes about the meaning of the day’s activities. Clark’s Corners Community Church had their youth participate in a float. LaRoy’s Gr8t Goats had a few of their animals on a float with family ands friends that honored the holiday. Local businessman Sam Conti had his flatbed as well as two smaller vehicles decorated for family and friends to participate in the day’s activities.

This year, in the Cracker Jack Farms carriage, the honored guests were Dennis and Jane Stornes, Donna Dort and Cindy Parsons. Following them, area youth rode their bicycles, scooters, and other vehicles along the route after decorating them at the town hall with help from the Town of Poland Recreation Committee. Southern Tier Mini Tractor Pullers had a float with a tractor on it. Several antique and classic cars followed them.

The town of Poland’s parade included a train of animals and volunteers from the Chautauqua County Humane Society, pictured.

Area first responders were well represented, with the Kennedy Fire Department and its equipment, as well as vehicles from mutual aid partners Conewango, Ellington, Falconer, Frewsburg, and Randolph also sending trucks to participate. All the lights and different types of emergency vehicles are always an impressive sight.

Bringing up the rear of the parade, members of the Southern Tier Riders Motorcycle Club rode their bikes, decorated for the day. The Sheriff’s Department vehicle followed after helping with traffic control for the parade.

Arriving at Riverside Cemetery for the annual service of remembrance gave everyone a chance to think as they made their way back to where the program was held. Walker welcomed everyone, and introduced the town officials and guests assembled on the platform. The Falconer Central School Marching Band then played the national anthem, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Rev. Michael Herdzik led the assembly with the invocation. He thanked God for giving the opportunity to thank those who have given so much that Americans may enjoy the freedoms that they have today. Also, he asked the attendants to remember to be thankful not just on Memorial Day, but to remember veterans and those currently serving every day.

Zach Boardman, Boys State representative, then read Logan’s Orders, which were one of the first ways Americans recognized those who sacrificed during the Civil War. Many of the traditions followed today stem from Logan’s Orders. Following the reading, the Falconer High School band played a musical tribute. Young people from the community then joined George and Martha Washington in placing flowers at the monument to veterans. Deperna closed this portion of the service by reading the Gettysburg Address.

Honored guests, pictured from left in the Cracker Jack Farms carriage, were Cindy Parsons, Donna Dort, Dennis Stornes and Jane Stornes.

Walker then introduced speaker Master Chief Clifford Hotchkiss. He stated that Hotchkiss spent 28 years in service to the country as a member of the SEABEES, and in addition worked on many monuments in Washington, D.C. His skills have taken him to many places around the world to build and to train others.

“We’re all here to honor our veterans, past and present,” Hotchkiss said, noting that it’s hard for a veteran to explain their service time to a civilian.

Hotchkiss said that being able to enjoy freedom and life is due to a strong military. He then explained that the military, from the chairman of the Joint Chiefs to the newest recruit, is a place where everyone has a task to perform. If they weren’t needed they wouldn’t be there. Every man and woman in every branch of service is needed to protect the country and quality of life.

“With every passing of a veteran, be it in battle, accident, or natural causes we could each take a moment each day to think of them, and what they may have done for their country and for each of us,” he said. “No veteran passes that someone does not mourn them. Friends, family, loved ones and if there is no one else then God is watching over them.”

“Common Ground” performed a stirring medley of patriotic songs in tribute. Ruth Rowley read a roll call of the wars that citizens have served in over the generations. Donna Dort followed with a roll call of all the local veterans who have died since last Memorial Day. Swanson solemnly proceeded to place the wreath at the veterans’ memorial, giving a solemn salute before leaving it there. Active military personnel were asked to stand or raise their hands so they could be recognized.

Delahoy followed with the benediction. She asked God to help the attendants remember the veterans who have sacrificed so much not just on Memorial Day, but every day. She also asked Him to hold servicemen and women who are serving now in His arms and “cover them with Your sheltering grace.”

Walker then asked everyone to stand as the Randolph American Legion Post 181 firing squad gave the salute to the dead, after which “Taps” was played by Falconer High School trumpeter Brittany McElwain. As the last notes faded away, Swanson raised the flag in Riverside Cemetery to full staff.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today