Tony Unger, commander of Easton's Charles L. Ruman Post 160 of the American Legion, asked the crowd gathered for a veterans ceremony in front of town hall, under bright Monday morning sunshine, to think of the similarities between first responders and U.S. soldiers abroad.
Police officers, firefighters and Emergency Medical Service personnel can face life and death situations at any time. During Hurricane Sandy, Easton lost one of its own when Firefighter Russell Neary was killed by a falling tree on his way back from responding to a fire call.
Of the soldiers who died serving our country, First Selectman Thomas Herrmann said, "On this day, we pay tribute to their memory."
Herrmann also recognized Easton's first responders and reminded townspeople of Neary's sacrifice.
The ceremony took place after Easton's 68th annual Memorial Day Parade, which Herrmann called "one of the proud traditions that brings Easton together."
The event's three featured speakers included Easton Police Chief James Candee, EMS Chief Carolyn Kearney and Fire Chief Steve Waugh.
Selectman Scott Centrella was among the town officials in attendance.
The Rev. Cynthia Robinson sang the "Star Spangled Banner", Catherine Waugh sang "America the Beautiful" and the Helen Keller School Band performed during the ceremony.
Fr. Cornell gave the Invocation and Fr. Demic the Benediction.
The placing of the wreaths and "Taps" was performed with the American Flag flying at half-mast.
At the end of the ceremony, Unger thanked the crowd for attending the event and members of the American Legion and the Boy Scouts for planning the parade, and spoke of the honor he felt when helping those who placed flags on the graves of veterans at cemeteries on May 18.
"Just take a minute today to think of those who have served," Unger said. "Please keep our fallen service men and women and those who have been wounded in battle in your thoughts and prayers."
After the event, veterans invited members of the public to join them in remembrance ceremonies at cemeteries on Black Rock Turnpike and Route 59.
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