Marion’s fallen were solemnly remembered on Memorial Day as members of the Benjamin D. Cushing Post 2452 Veterans of Foreign Wars held ceremonies at four locations.

Observances began at the Civil War Monument in front of the Marion Music Hall where veterans Bob Nissen and Doug Thackery performed the raising of the colors.

Selectmen Chair Jody Dickerson spoke in front of Town Hall and at Old Landing Park. Too often, he said, Americans fail to recognize the sacrifices made on their behalf.

“Far too many Americans view military service as an abstraction, as images seen on television and in the movies,” he said. “We in this country owe a great debt of gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives so that we could live free.”

Dickerson also thanked those who attended the day’s observances.

“You come here to honor our fallen fellow Americans by your presence. You understand that on Memorial Day we honor the ideas and values that soldiers and sailors stood for, and died defending,” he said.

Veterans, the Board of Selectmen, the Sippican School Band, the Portuguese American Band, local Scout troops, and others marched in the parade that began at the corner of Front and Cottage Streets. The parade proceeded through the Village to the Town House, and then on to Old Landing Cemetery, and Old Landing Park.

At each location, the Veterans of Foreign Wars full memorial ritual was performed. The ritual includes the placement of an American flag, wreath, and flowers. Post members, and a representative from the Ladies Auxiliary, spoke briefly before a firing squad salute. Taps was played at the end of each ceremony.

Parade Committee Chairman, and post member, Rodney Hunt offered thanks to everyone who helped including, Marion Police Chief Lincoln Miller and his staff, Mario Emergency Medical Services, the Boy and Girl Scouts, and Zora’s.

Hunt also gave a special thank you to the Washburn brothers, Warren, Billy, and Bobby. Every year the three set-up the public address system used by post members.

“They’re not veterans, but their father was. He’s been dead for ten years now, but they come out every year and help us out, thank you,” Hunt said.