Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service. Growing up as a child in New Hampshire this was a day of celebration. The VFW, the American Legion, the National Guard, servicemen from Pease Airbase, the ROTC and a myriad number of other groups all proudly marched in an hour-long parade with flags and flowers.

Gold Star mothers always rode in an open convertible up Main Street where they threw wreaths into the river in honor of the loved ones they had sacrificed in the war. Of course, Windham doesn’t have a river on Main Street but then the river wasn’t the most important aspect, honoring these Gold Star Mothers was the focus. We also had several bands that marched and played.

My hope is that this year on Memorial Day the town of Windham will witness a much larger participation than in the past two years.

We live in freedom today because of those who have served and now serve. Shouldn’t we show our respect and honor them with the praise and dignity they deserve?

Madeline Roberts

Windham