People lined Canada Street Saturday morning, many waving small American flags, to watch the American Legion Post 374 Memorial Day parade. The Lake George Steamboat Company’s calliope truck led the way, followed by members of Post 374, the Lake George Community Band, Daisy Girl Scout Troop 3897, and the Lake George Volunteer Fire Department and Auxiliary. The American Legion held a Memorial Day ceremony in Shepard Park following the parade.
“From the Revolutionary War to present day, we have lost over one million soldiers in the line of duty,” said guest speaker Commander Gaither Espey of the Sons of the American Legion. “That’s one million men and women who gave the ultimate, supreme sacrifice protecting America and our freedom.” Espey urged those in attendance to approach active-duty military personnel they see at airports or other places and thank them for their service. He also reminded the crowd to remember prisoners of war and those missing in action.
American Legion Adjutant Gary Vernum also spoke, saying, “Comrades, this day is sacred with the almost visible presence of those who have gone before us.” He asked those present to rededicate themselves to serving the country. “All who stand with us today, will you not consecrate yourselves with us to emulate their sacred service, that those who rest in heroes’ graves may not have died in vain?”
Following the speakers, representatives of the American Legion and Auxiliary, the Sons of the American Legion and the Lake George Volunteer Fire Department laid wreaths on the Veterans Memorial in Shepard Park. The Daisy troop then decorated the monument with flowers.
The ceremony concluded with a gunfire salute, and the playing of Taps and the Star-Spangled Banner by the Lake George Junior High Band.
Lake George Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade Photos
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