The parade route in Kennedy was full of spectators of all ages as the procession began along Route 394. Vietnam veteran Robert Swanson performed the honors as wreath bearer and began the parade. He was followed by the firing squad/color guard from American Legion Post No. 181 from Randolph. Master of Ceremonies Councilman Terry Walker and the guest speaker, Mike Rauh from the Chautauqua County Veterans Service walked next.

Many children rode patriotically decorated bikes through the parade this year, thanks to the Town of Poland Recreation Committee. Several local equestrians rode their patriotically decorated horses through the parade. Classic and antique cars from many eras were part of the procession. Some local businesses used their vehicles to support the parade, as well as residents decorating SUVs and other smaller vehicles for the parade.

Mutual aid partners for the Kennedy Fire Department were part of the parade as well. Apparatus from Conewango, Ellington, Falconer, Fluvanna, Gerry and Randolph volunteer fire departments participated in the parade along with the Kennedy Fire Department. Members of the Southern Tier Riders Motorcycle Club and others rode their bikes at the end of the parade.

At Riverside Cemetery, Master of Ceremonies Terry Walker welcomed everyone to the 150th anniversary of Memorial Day, and introduced the officials and honored guests. He noted that Memorial Day is a solemn day of remembrance, and that we honor the sacrifice of those who have served since the beginning of our country.

Wreath bearer Robert Swanson leads the way, with the Randolph American Legion Post No. 181 Firing Squad/Color Guard behind him.

Walker introduced the speaker, Mike Rauh. Rauh is a veteran of the U.S. Army, with service in many theatres. He was born in Olean and grew up in Jamestown. Following his years in service, he returned to the area and is currently a service officer for Chautauqua County Veterans Service.

“It is important that we understand the price paid for our freedoms,” Rauh said. “It is important that we teach each new generation that freedom is not free. If we do not understand the price of Freedom, we will never appreciate the value of freedom.”

Rauh noted that the average age of U.S. service members is 20 years old. About 80 percent of the military is under 26. The sacrifices of our youth are what give us the opportunity to grow old in this great nation. Rauh said that he appreciates his military service more as he gets older, because he can appreciate the value of what so many have died to protect.

Only 1 percent of the population serves in the military, Rauh told the audience. He asked them to think about that. As adults we often talk about “kids these days.” It has been the same for many generations. He stated “Kids for decades have been flying helicopters, jumping out of airplanes, shooting artillery, flying jets, dropping bombs, driving tanks, patching up wounded and so much more. So please take a moment to remember the sacrifices of all those kids who left home, became men and women and died for our freedom.”

Wreath bearer Robert Swanson was called to place the wreath on the veterans memorial. Walker asked any active service personnel to be recognized. He then asked all who were able to stand as the Randolph American Legion Post No. 181 Firing Squad gave the Salute to the Dead, and echo “Taps” was played by Beth Brown and Brittany McElwain.