For the 2nd year in a row, it rained on Westport’s parade.
But a standing-room-only crowd gathered at Town Hall, for a moving ceremony honoring all who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
Gathered quietly among them were many some of the many Westporters who served — and still serve — our nation.
We thank them all. We would not be here today without them.
Grand marshal Ed Vebell recounted stories as an illustrator behind World War II enemy lines.
Bill Vornkahl has organized Westport’s Memorial Day celebrations for the past 47 years.
Larry Aasen
Ted Diamond
Leonard Everett Fisher
Bob Satter
Bob Custer
Malcolm Watson
Rick Benson
Buyile Rani
Bill Delgado and Geoff Gillespie (active)
It’s been more than 35 years since I wore my uniform and I might be able to button my slacks over one leg! How in the world did these guys get into theirs?
I had the same question! Great job to these veterans, helping honor and remembering the ultimate sacrifice of our fallen warriors.
Great to see all these pictures.
Where were the women who served in World War II in the photos? Or in any other war? Didn’t anyone invite the WACS, the WAVEs, the Women Marines or the Red Cross workers?
I’m sure they were there. There were many veterans in attendance. I just took photos of the ones I saw who were in full uniform. My apologies for all those I missed.
I wondered the same thing.
Thank you ALL for your service to our country and protecting us!
Thank you for posting this Dan. And thanks to Mr, Vornkahl, whom I have never met, but never the less helped me to understand what Memorial Day meant, as I grew up in our town.
Gratitude to all who served…….including the families who stayed home and worried.
Thank you for your service, and may God Bless the men and women of the greatest generation, that are no longer with us.
Some very serious medals and badges
Distinguished Flying Cross, Combat Infantryman Badge, Airborne Wings, Glider Patch & Badge, Air Medal, Bronze Star, numerous Commendation Medals, and Good Conduct Medals WOW‼️🇺🇸👏