Across our nation, in cities large and small, solemn ceremonies took place during the Memorial Day week and weekend, perhaps with heightened fervor because of today’s widespread global violence and the scandalous service delays at our faltering Veterans Administration facilities.
Residents of The Villages and surrounding communities, always demonstrative in their respect for military veterans, took part all week in special church services, club tributes and outdoor ceremonies  praising our veterans and honoring the fallen.
On Memorial Day, amid the traditional pomp and circumstance , hundreds of people assembled in all directions at Veterans’ Memorial Park, as far as the eye could see, to take part in the festivities and hear Capt. Dale Barsness, (U.S. Air Force Ret.) speak about why we celebrate this day.
First he offered a brief history of the origins of today’s Memorial Day.
“Today, we all remember our departed loved ones, our military, police, firemen, doctors, nurses and others in public service — those who have passed away and those who continue to serve our nation every day. Let us include our doctors and nurses who care for our returning wounded veterans — we can never forget the
Oklahoma bombing, 9/11 and other disasters.” Barsness concluded his talk, to an ovation, with the prayer: “Let no terrorist group, organized government or world power ever take our freedom away from us. God Bless America.”
Woodbridge Baptist Church’ Pastor Dave Johnson’s prayer message drew cheers when he said “we celebrate and also recognize our surviving veterans and the fallen. Peace is not free. A price, a huge price was paid. Let us pray for peace in our nation and peace in the world.”
The program was enhanced by the presentation of flags by the Memorial Park honor guard and flags of all the armed forces branches.
VMP president/commander Richard Simpson, introduced to much applause Joan Mezzatesta, widow of Frank Mezzatesta, and ‘Col.’ Harold Sievers, a Korean War veteran. Sievers and Mezzatesta co-founded Veterans’ Memorial Park.
The resounding voice of 10-year-old Molly Rae, who belted out our National Anthem, plus Lt. Commander Fran Pagliarulo (U.S. Navy Ret.) ‘s rendition of “God Bless the U.S.A.,” added richness to the proceedings. A favorite with the crowd, Reno Pietrantoni (U.S. Army, Ret.) encouraged people to sing “God Bless America” along with him. The Sounds of Scotland Pipe & Drum contingent added joyous sound. A
21-gun salute followed by John Bird’s taps reminded everyone of the solemnity of the day.
“Despite flags flying at half-staff, Americans are free to have backyard cookouts and gatherings. We can thank our soldiers , sailors and marines that we have the freedom to enjoy these occasions without fear,” said Simpson.
