Reported and written by Mary McGinley:
On Monday, May 27th around 9:30 am the streets of downtown Madison became more vibrant with each passing minute.
By 10:00 a.m., the start of the annual Memorial Day Parade, families were lined up along the road in anticipation of the festivities. As on each Memorial Day in Madison, a large and grateful crowd came out to support the troops who have fought for our country’s freedom. It is a chance for the town to display their pride and spirit while celebrating the national holiday.
The parade did not disappoint this year, and neither did the weather. With clouds, rain, and wind persisting all weekend leading up to the holiday, the parade had nothing but sunshine to offer. Sunny with a slight breeze, one could call it perfect parade weather.
The celebration kicked off with our proud and many veterans marching together, holding up banners, sporting their uniforms, and driving old-fashioned army jeeps and vehicles. This is always my favorite part of the parade because it’s a chance for us to clap and honor the people who fought for us. It makes me smile seeing the veterans waving, chatting with one another, and allowing us to thank them for their service.
Exceptional performances followed from the DHHS Tiger Marching Band, the DHHS Flag Squad, and the Polson Middle School Marching Band. The musical groups representing Hand and Polson displayed disciplined marching, patriotic spirit, and talent as they played national classics. My personal favorite was “God Bless America,” played when they reached the Madison Green.
The Madison Daisies, Brownies, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Boy Scouts all came out to represent their respective troops with unique, decorated banners. Childhood spirit and comradery were shown as the troops marched proudly with their leaders, the young boys and girls giggling with one another as they waved to the crowd.
Finally, rounding off the parade were the volunteer firefighters and the Madison Ambulance Association, representing people who work each day to keep the town safe.
Following annual tradition, the parade assembled on the Town Green by Memorial Town Hall, and held one of several memorial ceremonies Monday. The parade then made its way down Boston Post Road to West Cemetery, where another ceremony was held by the Wilcox Soldier monument. Then the group was dismissed and asked to make its way to the American Legion Hall, where there was a short break. Then, participants were taken by bus to West Wharf, where there was a wreath laying on the waters to honor U.S. Navy Veterans. The group was then scheduled to go to the VFW Hall on Lovers Lane.
Overall, it was a great occasion with music, lots of cheering, and happy vibes to commemorate this important holiday.
If you see a veteran today, or any day for that matter, and are so inclined, thank them for their service. It’s important for them to know how grateful we are, and that their sacrifices and steadfast allegiance have not been forgotten!
Happy Memorial Day!
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