Large Turnout at Novato's Memorial Day Ceremony

Other than military veterans, only a select few will get up on a holiday morning and trek out to a Memorial Day ceremony to pay their respects, remember the fallen and shake hands with those who served.

But more than usual did that Monday at in Novato. Several veterans and event organizers remarked that the crowd of about 150-200 people was the largest in recent memory.

Marine Corps veteran Ted McCarthy, adjutant and chaplain with American Legion Post 540, was supported by post Commander Walter Shank in hosting the annual event. More than 700 of the buried at the Novato cemetery are military veterans, according to Valley Memorial manager George Estes.

Speakers included John Sammons of the Military Officers Association of America, Pat Eklund and Jeanne MacLeamy of the Novato City Council, Barbara Travis of the Blue Star Moms of Marin, Lt. Gregory Allen of the House of Steel gym and several veterans to stepped up during "open mike" time.

Four Marines fresh from boot camp were on hand as well as five House of Steel recruits who are preparing for military service. Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts based at Hamilton planted flags at the gravesites of military veterans prior to the ceremony. "Taps" was played on the trumpet by Emerson Dewitt, a local Girl Scout, just after two commemorative wreaths were laid at the base of the American flag.

For coverage of this event as well as the ceremony at the Marin Civic Center, click here.