Monday, May 26, 2008

Memorial Day - Dorrance style


Memorial Day in Dorrance starts with a trip to the cemeteries to place flowers on the graves of family members and loved ones. Nancy, Susan, and I started at 7:30 with a trip to the Catholic cemetery to place flowers on Joe's grave.


Joe's military marker


The highlight of Memorial Day in Dorrance is participating in the parade from the American Legion Hall on main street to the city cemetery. We just dress in our red, white and blue and decorate our vehicles (bikes, 4-wheelers, wagons, etc.) and walk to honor those who have served our country and are no longer with us. Garrett and Anna rode in Karna's Polaris.


We first gather on main street for the parade. Even Sam was excited to be a part of the festivities with his grandma Jo.


Then we walk (or ride) to the cemetery. You can see Sharon on the left side of the photo as she and I were taking a picture at the same time. Joey carried Sam part of the way, Nancy is on the right.


Mick and Garrett drove the Polaris. Left to right: Colleen, Jo, Jody, Nancy, and Joey. Reminder - you can click on any photo to see it 'larger' in a new window.


Kelly, Anna, and Sam (when Joey wasn't carrying him) rode in the back of Karna's Polaris.


My Dad was able to attend the services. It meant a great deal to him because he served in WWII and flew 33 missions on a B-17 from England to Germany. Dad also spent many years as part of the Memorial Day service as part of the firing squad that you can see in this photo.


The color guard lead the parade. The bagpipe player on the right, Stan Langhofer, played Amazing Grace as part of the service.


I love this photo of Dad with the flag in the background and the big smile on his face. Dad, I love your choice of a cap.


Dad and his three daughters: Susan, me, and Debbie

1 comment:

Chris Lydick said...

Looks like you had such a great Memorial Day! I'm missin you already, Mary Kay!! :-D Have a great summer, and I'll be sure to let you know when I make it back to town over the next few months!