Flags waved and crowds lined the streets of Southold today as hundreds turned out to mark Memorial Day with a heartfelt remembrance service and a spirited parade today.
Peter Kelley, minister of the First Presbyterian Church of Southold, led the ceremony with a prayer for the fallen, who gave the greatest sacrifice to defend freedom.
New York State Senator Ken LaValle thanked those who died in combat. “Our government forms the greatest country in the world and we will always be challenged because of the freedoms we have,” he said. But even faced with the unthinkable on 9/11, “our country came together,” LaValle said. To the men and women who serve, he said. “We thank you for what you do to protect our freedom.”
Suffolk County Legislator Al Krupski echoed words of thanks and said Memorial Day is the time to teach young people about reflection on the sacrifices that have been made so that they can experience parades and other festivities. “Because of them, we can enjoy today and enjoy our lives,” he said.
Remembering the families who have lost so much in the name of freedom, Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell asked for the crowd to thank them, too, on Memorial Day. “Our hearts go out to them,” he said.
“Say a special prayer for the families who have lost a loved one and say a prayer for those serving our country, that they stay safe,” said Greenport Village Mayor George Hubbard.
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