Pictured during the town of Poland’s annual Memorial Day service is wreath bearer Robert Swanson with color guard and the Kennedy Fire Department’s new truck. Photo by Rose Mary Carver

KENNEDY — The town of Poland was able to remember its veterans this year after last year’s break due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A parade was led by Robert Swanson, participating as the wreath bearer for his 50th consecutive year. American Legion Post No. 181 provided its color guard and firing squad to follow. Then came the brand new engine for the Kennedy Fire Department, with Swanson’s son, Cory, driving and his grandson, Brandon, riding shotgun.

The Falconer/Frewsburg Marching Band and color guard played an enthusiastic medley of patriotic tunes. Town officials walked the parade route, and the honored guests, Steve and Chris Hatfield and Vern Terrill, rode along the route.

Some classic tractors and cars were in the parade, and the Southern Tier Motorcycle Riders once again honored the veterans by participating.

At Riverside Cemetery Terry Walker welcomed all present to the service. Both the Gettysburg Address and Logan’s Orders were read, with the National Anthem played by the band. Burt Lindquist performed a patriotic tune.

This year’s guest speaker was Rick Swanson, who for many years has portrayed George Washington in the parades. Rick Swanson told the story of how Francis Scott Key came to write the Star Spangled Banner, and what that song truly means.

Robert Swanson respectfully laid the wreath at the veterans’ memorial in the cemetery. The firing squad fired their salute, as “Taps” was played.

Walker invited everyone to a flag retirement ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, in Hallquist Park. Anyone with a flag to be honorable retired may leave it at the town hall or the Kennedy Free Library.