Acushnet holds Memorial Day ceremony

By Beth David, Editor

The Town of Acushnet held a Memorial Day ceremony at the Veterans Memorial to remember and honor US Military servicemembers who died in service to the country.

Guest speaker Sgt. Major Jim Rollins of Acushnet, said it was not just an occasion to remember those who gave their lives in service to the country, but also reflect on the values of courage, selflessness, and patriotism.

“The same values that define our fellow comrades,” he said. 

In every conflict since the Revolutionary War, millions have answered the call to defend our freedom.

He asked that they honor their memory not only with words, but with actions and “strive to build a nation worthy of their sacrifice.”

He also said the nation is forever indebted to the families of those who have died in service to the country.

Sgt. Major Rollins also asked that people remember those who continue to serve, risking their lives to protect our way of life.

“Their courage inspires us to be better citizens and stewards of our great nation,” he said.

Deven Robitaille, Commander of the VFW in Acushnet, reminded everyone that Memorial Day is a celebration, but a somber celebra­tion. She said as she celebrates with family and friends, she will appreciate those who sacrificed and strive to make the country be what they fought for. Not that it is not, she noted, but make it better.

“If it wasn’t for them, we couldn’t be us,” said Cmdr. Robitaille.

Mike Jenney, Commander of the American Legion in Acushnet, asked the crowd to reflect on the families left behind and all the what ifs they face. No parent should have to bury a child, he said, but millions have and will continue to do so in name of freedom.

He asked that people reflect upon the fact that millions of men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice, so we may enjoy that cold beer and day at the beach.

Select Board chairperson David Wojnar said that Memorial Day is a day of “reflection and gratitude.”

He asked people to take a moment to pause and acknowledge “what is in our hearts as we think about veterans…who have served this country.”

Mr. Wojnar said people talk about debt in this country, but unfortu­nately they usually mean financial debt. 

“The greatest debt that we have in this country is to the men and women who have served our country bravely and admirably over the years,” said Mr. Wojnar. “It’s an insurmountable debt that we will never, ever, ever, ever be able to pay back in full.”

He said they can try, though, to do a little bit by saying thank you, opening a door, acknowledging neighbors.

“We can be at the four-way stop sign in Acushnet and let the other person go,” he said, eliciting lots of laughs.

Rep. Mark Sylvia noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.

To all Vietnam veterans there, he said, “Welcome home.”

The ceremony also included the National Anthem; the Pledge of Allegiance led by Jr. Miss Apple Peach, Willow Niles; the invocation by the Rev. Lori Eldredge; the reading of the Governors proclamation by Bill Kligel; the laying of the wreath; Amazing Grace on the bagpipes by Bruce Webb; Taps; The reading of the honor roll by Selectboard member Bob Hinckley. 

The event is available on the town’s YouTube channel at https://tinyurl.com/4tvmfvfa

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