Newtown’s Memorial Day Salute To Sacrifice

By Jan Howard

Members of American Legion Post 202 and Newtown residents of all ages gathered on May 27 to spend a few minutes in remembrance of those who gave their lives in times of war.

The annual Memorial Day ceremony took place at 10 am at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument at the intersection of Main Street and Hanover Road.

Members of the American Legion and First Selectman Herbert Rosenthal remembered those men and women who had fallen in battle with patriotic and poignant speeches.

Floral tributes were placed, rifle volleys fired, and taps played in commemoration of those who made the supreme sacrifice to protect the freedom and democracy that citizens of the United States continue to enjoy today.

American Legion Commander William Saren said this week that on Monday, May 29, between 6 am, when he lowered the flag to half-staff, and noon when he returned to raise it, about 20 commemorative bouquets had been left at the monument, in addition to written notes of love and gratitude.

 One said simply, “Thanks, Dad.”