As I do every year, I went to this year's Sea Cliff Memorial Day Parade. I took lots of photographs but when it was time to edit, I found that the most interesting photographs were the people who were waiting for the parade, and then watching it as the parade came by. Most of these don't need captions but a few do. I loved this couple waiting for the parade. I love the man's hat, his magnificent beard, and his wonderful walking stick!
The Sea Cliff Fire Department has quite a presence at the parade. About half way through their route, they stop at the firehouse where there is a memorial for the volunteer firemen who have passed away. Here the chief, I believe it is, watches as an invocation is given.
This volunteer was marching with his son, and still managed to salute while holding on to his son during the ceremonies at the firehouse.
I just love this sun dappled scene as the parade nears Clifton Park where there will be a ceremony and speeches and remembering those members of the military who gave their lives in wars, going back to the Spanish American War.
This photograph is a favorite. Three children got to read their essays about what Memorial Day Means. This last speaker had the wind nearly blow the pages of her speech away! Without a second thought, the principal of the school jumped in and held the pages down while she crouched next to the the student while the student read her essay! Quick thinking and what a wonderful thing the Principal did for this young girl!
A thoughtful and interesting constellation of photos illustrating a small town Memorial Day celebration!
ReplyDeleteA wonderful showing of marchers and spectators in your beautiful town.
ReplyDeleteJoan
I loved this! It's like the America that we grew up in and loved. No signs of division, just a sense of community,trust,friendliness,and hopefulness! Safety, fondness, involvement. The first couple is a priceless shot. Let your readers know what it was like to get that one!
ReplyDeleteThis is small town America just like what we grew up in. Downtown parades that all the locals attend to honor those who gave their lives in service. Wonderful photos! Betsey
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your wonderful comments! I can't thank you enough for your kind words. One of the greatest teachers I had in college was Ralph Hattersley. One of his best ever quotes was "Never ask a photographer what he's up to, because he's the last one to know!" Well, I went and did these photographs and put them all together, but I didn't realize what I was doing. But all of you did, and thank you for letting me know!
ReplyDelete