Saxonburg finds comfort, pride in annual ceremony
SAXONBURG — The streets swelled with patriotic pride that spanned all ages on Monday at Saxonburg’s annual Memorial Day parade and ceremony.
While the laughter of children could be heard all down Main Street as they grabbed goodies that were being passed out from people riding atop the various floats in the parade, it was clear what this holiday means to the community.
The citizens of Saxonburg were there to remember and to honor.
The mile-and-a-half parade started at 10 a.m., as spectators watched groups such as the Knoch High School marching band, the Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Department and Boy Scout troops march down Main Street, passing out flags and candy to children.
“I always look forward to hearing the marching band play all the songs about America,” Ryan Karwoski said. “It’s just really beautiful.”
Karwoski, like many members of the community, attends the parade every year and enjoys the sense of community it brings.
“The school band is here, along with our American Legion and veterans,” Denise Dawson said. “Young and old, everybody comes together in our community.”
The parade halted at Roebling Park and the Saxonburg Museum, where a ceremony was held honoring those who gave their lives serving the nation during a time of war.
“We know freedom is not free,” Sandy Myers said in her invocation. “It comes with a great price.”
During the ceremony, the Knoch High School band played patriotic favorites such as “The Star Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America.” Additionally, poems were recited, including the moving “In Flanders Field,” read by George Bilowick, and “American Answer,” delivered by Staff Sergeant Aaron Beachem.
A number of speakers addressed the crowd, reminding everyone of the true meaning behind Memorial Day.
“All of sudden the men who join with you become brothers, women who serve become sisters,” said featured speaker Harold Wrigley. “Every brother and sister has family back home, so everybody here is part of that family. I just want to say thank you for being a family that is so loyal and a patriot to our country.”
The ceremony concluded with a three-round volley by the American Legion Honor Guard, while Henry Hoffman and Michael Seull, of the Knoch High School marching band, played taps.
“It’s an honor to perform for our veterans,” Hoffman said. “I’m glad we were able to play in front of these veterans because they certainly deserve it.”
