By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Hudson – Hudson, Massachusetts and American flags decorated downtown lampposts May 27 as the town observed Memorial Day with its annual parade and ceremony.
AMVETS Post 208 Color Guard led the parade followed by representatives from the town’s veterans’ organizations and Hudson-Concord Elks Lodge 959. Also marching were state and town officials with Scout troops. The Hudson High School Marching Band under the direction of Jason Caron provided patriotic music.
A ceremony with wreath layings took place at Liberty Park emceed by Commander Joe Jacobs of American Legion Post 100 and AMVETS Post 208. An invocation was offered by Michael King, district deputy grand exalted ruler of the Massachusetts Elks Association East Central District.
Scouts also participated in the ceremony. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by Shaelyn Madden, 8, of Troop 62486, and Lacey Mason, 15, of Troop 2. Kian Hesemeyer, 16, of Troop 77 read “In Flanders Field.”
Expressing gratitude for veterans’ service and sacrifice were state Rep. Kate Hogan (D-Stow), Selectman John Parent and Veterans’ Service Officer Brian Stearns.
Coast Guard veteran Michael Walling of Hudson delivered the keynote speech. He served six years as a commissioned officer and senior petty officer. Locally, Walling organized Vets Talk, a program exclusively for military veterans that has been meeting every other Thursday morning since 2015 at the Hudson Senior Center.
photos/Ed Karvoski Jr.
