OAKFIELD, Maine — Oakfield celebrated Memorial Day in classic style Monday, marking the day with both somber ceremonies and a traditional parade.
Local veterans and members of American Legion Post 52 smile and wave their way through Oakfield’s Memorial Day parade.
(Contributed photo/Sarah Berthiaume)
A morning ceremony at the Oakfield Cemetery launched the events organized by American Legion Post 52, followed by a parade and a service at the Four Corners Veterans’ Monument.
“We’re gathered here today to pay tribute to our fallen heroes,” said Post Commander Richard Burton as he welcomed the crowd to services at the veterans’ monument.
Also at the service, Doug Clark, first vice commander of the post, shared a short history of Memorial Day, explaining its origins and its true meaning.
Oakfield observed Memorial Day in classic style Monday, marking the day with ceremonies and a parade that included everything from local law enforcement, classic cars, members of the Oakfield Fire Department and Little Leaguers.
(Contributed photo/Sarah Berthiaume)
“It ensures the sacrifices of America’s heroes are never forgotten,” he said. “And it encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are … and to remember.”
Paying tribute to the fallen was a community-wide effort in Oakfield Monday, with members of the Southern Aroostook Community School band providing music throughout the morning, the volunteers participating in the program and parade and, of course, the veterans who helped organize the events.
“We want to thank the officers of the Legion and everyone who helped make today possible,” said Burton.
Members of American Legion Post 52 in Oakfield, including (from left) David Brewer and Randy Rockwell, stand at attention during Memorial Day ceremonies at the Oakfield Cemetery on Monday.
(Contributed photo/Sarah Berthiaume)
Burton also told the crowd gathered that more changes were coming to the veterans’ memorial.
Plans are to work on the lawn area around it and plant trees, he said. Also, engraved bricks that were sold to raise funds for the project will be placed in the near future, Burton said.
“We have about 80 bricks all ready to go,” he said. “And another 20 more coming up.”
