Fall River Honors Military Dead at Memorial Day Ceremony
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Summary
Fall River City held a Memorial Day ceremony featuring remarks from Mayor Paul Coogan and State Rep. Alan Sylvia, youth poems, wreath-laying, Taps, a dove release and a flag raising to honor local veterans, including Polish-American service members.
Fall River City held a Memorial Day ceremony at the city’s monument to honor service members who died while serving in the U.S. military. The event included the national anthem, youth poems, a wreath laying, the playing of Taps and a dove release, with remarks by Mayor Paul Coogan and State Representative Alan Sylvia.
The ceremony opened with historical remarks about Decoration Day and Memorial Day, followed by an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. Laura Dionisio sang the national anthem, youth from Blessed Trinity Youth Parish read poems, and veterans Jack and Dave placed a wreath at the monument.
Mayor Paul Coogan said the ceremony recognizes veterans of “all nationalities and creeds” who gave their lives. “Take time out of your schedules…to think about what this country is all about, and the people that did pay the ultimate sacrifice,” Coogan said.
State Representative Alan Sylvia urged attendees to remember local Polish American service members, noting many Polish immigrants and their families lived near the monument site and that their service and sacrifice should not be forgotten. “I’m very happy to see our youth here because so many people forget what Memorial Day is all about,” Sylvia said.
Talos “Doc” Farris, identified as a former veteran service officer, thanked the youth and the city’s efforts to recognize veterans and said, “The price of freedom is paid in blood.” The ceremony also included a flag raising by Fall River flag officer Victor Ferreras, taps performed by Larry Bierlo of the Vietnam Veterans of Fall River, and a dove release by the Vietnam Veterans of Fall River.
Organizers announced a Mass at 8:30 a.m. and a complimentary breakfast at 9:30 a.m. following the ceremony. The Fall River Police Department was thanked for providing security during the event.
The ceremony emphasized remembrance of local veterans, with several speakers pointing to the city’s immigrant communities and the participation of young people in reciting poems and readings.