Date: Fri 30-May-1997

Publication: Bee

Author: KAAREN

Quick Words:

Memorial-Day

Full Text:

Memorial Day Ceremonies Honor War Dead

Veterans, public officials and residents assembled at the Soldiers and Sailors

Monument at the head of Main Street last Saturday morning to honor the

servicemen and women who have given their lives in service of their country.

Members of American Legion Post 202, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 308 and

their Ladies Auxiliaries participated in the event, paying homage to their

fallen comrades.

The speakers also included US Rep James Maloney, D-Fifth District, First

Selectman Bob Cascella, and State Rep Julia Wasserman, R-106th District.

"This weekend we should reflect on the many freedoms which we have and those

who died to protect them," said Rep Wasserman, who is a veteran of the Korean

War.

After Post 202 member Barry Dawe placed a wreath in front of the monument,

flowers were laid on the memorial plaques by Post 202 Adjutant Mike Pelillo;

Boyd Saxton, Third District senior vice commander, and Joanne Peck of the VFW

Auxiliary.

Newtown High School band members Sibyl Nelson and Conor Evans played taps.

In the photos, clockwise from upper left: Sandra and Walter Motyka brought

their grandchildren, Shannon, almost 3, and Thomas, 1, who live in Westboro,

Mass., to the ceremony; Third District Sr Vice Commander Boyd Saxton of Post

202 places flowers on a memorial plaque; veterans stand at attention while

Sibyl Nelson (center) plays taps; Matt Douglass, 7, found a comfortable spot

to sit and drew a flag during the ceremonies; a traditional rifle salute

honored the war dead.