Memorial Day 2015 in Asotn PA – Photo by: Loretta Rodgers
By Loretta Rodgers.
Hundreds of Aston Township residents attended the annual Memorial Day Parade and observance held May 25 at American Legion Post #926
Prior to the solemn service, a parade was held including veterans, members of Post #926 Ladies Auxiliary, police and emergency vehicles, the Sun Valley High School band, antique cars, Scout Troops and Packs, and more.
The St. James High School Alumni Choir performed several patriotic hymns including “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,”and “God Bless America,” as well as the anthems that represent all of the armed forces.
Post #926 Commander Cy Yost served as master of ceremonies, introducing guest speakers Jim Stigale, president of the Aston Board of Commissioners, and 7th Ward Commissioner Mike Higgins.
“It is important that we honor all veterans, both alive and deceased,” said Stigale. “They are the reason we live in freedom in our great country.”
With Post #926 Women’s Auxiliary sitting in a circle, Poppy Queens Cara DePaolantonio and Kayla Riley placed a wreath at the base of the flag pole and the Sun Valley High School JRROTC performed a 21 gun salute.
Post #926 member Bob Sexton read the poem, “In Flanders Field,” and explained the purpose of the lone table that was set for deceased service men and women.
Special guest of honor Staff Sergeant Sean Slusar, a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, told those in attendance that Memorial Day is about those who did not make it home.
“Honor the fallen by loving your life to the fullest,” Slusar said. “Life is precious and it is short. Please dedicate at least one day a week to be with your family. That is what the fallen soldiers would want you to do.”
In addition, VFW Bonaventure-Clark Post 6613 and Killen-Miles Post 87 American Legion held a parade and Memorial Day observance at the monuments located at New and Mount Roads where a ceremony and wreath laying took place.
Fire apparatus, emergency personnel and the Penncrest High School Marching Band took part in the ceremony.
Aston 2nd Ward Commissioner Carol Graham stressed the importance of observing Memorial Day and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Images From Memorial Day 2015
Photos by: Loretta Rodgers
