Springfield conducted its annual Memorial Day ceremony on May 23 with a speaking program and wreath-laying ceremony.
Reminder Publishing photos by Ryan Feyre
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield officials and veterans gathered at City Hall on May 23 to observe Memorial Day and remember those who have sacrificed for the country.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers highlighted the essence of the holiday and why it is more than just a long weekend for people across the United States.
“Memorial Day … is much more than retail store sales and cookouts,” said Mayor Domenic Sarno. “It is because of our veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifices, and their families who continue and have stood by them, that America is still the greatest country in the world, the beacon of democracy, strength, hope and opportunity.”
Gumersindo Gomez, a Vietnam veteran, expanded on that sentiment, saying that while most will celebrate the holiday with fun summer activities, the true meaning of the holiday is to remember those who “paid the ultimate price” for freedom.
“We are proud we serve our country,” Gomez said. “However, remember those we lost. For the freedom that you have today, they pay the ultimate price.”
Immediately following the speaking program, the city commemorated the country’s heroes with its honorary wreath laying ceremony at the Veterans’ Monuments located in Court Square.
“While we lay these wreaths and we fly our flags, we will stand up and show that democracy is still alive,” said state Sen. Adam Gomez (D-Springfield).
