Ridgefield residents, veterans, and government officials including First Selectman Rudy Marconi, Selectmen Steve Zemo and Bob Herbert, along with State Senator Toni Boucher, gathered inside Jesse Lee Memorial Methodist Church today to honor those who gave their lives for our freedom. Today marks 151 years of remembering our country’s heroes.
American pride was abundant when Evelyn Carr of Ridgefield belted out the National Anthem, setting the tone for a Memorial Day ceremony filled with reflection and gratitude.
As the ceremony began, a C-130 Jet could be heard flying over Main Street. Flying the plane was Brian Hebert, son of Selectman Bob Hebert. Although Hebert knew the Parade was cancelled, he was committed to giving Ridgefield the gift of a Memorial Day flyover!
“Have you ever received a bill in the mail for your freedom? Our military have paid that bill, ” remarked American Legion Post #78 Commander, George Besse, who served as the event emcee.
Speakers included Grand Marshal Dick Mayhew, a Veteran of the Air Force and a pilot who trained other pilots in World War II, Honorary Grand Marshal, Doug Clewell and First Selectman, Rudy Marconi.
“Today is about the soldiers who demonstrated true patriotism,” said First Selectman, Rudy Marconi.
Marconi quoted Franklin D. Roosevelt “In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.”
Thanks to Ridgefield’s Memorial Day Parade coordinator, Denis Loncto and his sidekick, Dick Godbout. Both of these American Legion members and true patriots have worked for six months on the many Parade details. And yes, a contingency plan in the event of rain.
Happy Memorial Day to all!