PARSIPPANY — A drizzling rain and threatening skies couldn’t dampen the spirit of a crowd of around 50 people who gathered at Veterans Memorial Park Monday to mark Memorial Day with a solemn ceremony.
The ceremony began 10:00 a.m., in down pouring rain, was emceed this year by VFW and American Legion member, Councilman Michael DePierro.
Reverend Donald A. Bragg, Paster, Parsippany Presbyterian Church and Rabbi-Cantor Inna Serebro-Litvak of Temple Beth Am preformed the Invocation; the Boy and Girl Scouts lead in the Pledge of Allegiance; Emily Smith of Girl Scout Troop 95615 recited “This is Memorial Day”; the Honorable James R. Barberio, Mayor of the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, welcomed everyone and Reverend Donald Bragg of the Presbyterian Church delivered the Benediction.
As customary, members of the VFW and American Legion, conducted a “Laying of the Wreaths” ceremony in front of the Veterans Memorial statue; the VFW Rifle Squad saluted and Taps was played by Anthony Paterno, of Boy Scout Troop 173.
The special guest and keynote speaker, Michael Fuller, former Naval Petty Officer Second Class, Operation Specialist and brother of Derek McConnell. Michelle Musolino-Roberts sang the “National Anthem” and “Amazing Grace”. The VFW and American Legion color guards participated in the ceremonies.
Veterans say today is all about remembering those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.
“It’s very important to keep them in our hearts and minds. And honor them with services like this,” Council Vice President Robert Peluso said.
