American servicemembers faced gruesome conditions in every war they’ve fought.
So a little rain shouldn’t have deterred marchers and viewers, at today’s Memorial Day parade.
It didn’t.
Crowds showed up for the hundreds of veterans, first responders, bands, civic groups, kids’ activities and random others who make Westport’s annual event such a wonderful community occasion.
The ceremony afterward, highlighted by grand marshal and Korean War combat pilot Charles Lamb Jr. — along with the ceremonial laying of a wreath, and playing of “Taps” — was especially meaningful this year.
It was the first one in over half a century not overseen by Bill Vornkahl. But Westport’s “Mr. Parade” was there in spirit.
As was every man and woman who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
With solemnity — and a festive parade — we remember them.
Westport EMS and CERT, ready to line up. (Photo/Molly Alger)
Teddy Sealove, Keaton Ellis and Jake Bryniczka get ready too. (Photo/Joselyn Fine)
The Driscolls — veteran parade watchers. (Photo/Sheila Freitag)
Waiting in the rain. (Photo/Bill Ryan)
(Photo/Nancy Lally)
View from a parade car — a 1960 Mercedes Benz, driven by Scott Bennewitz. (Photo/Kathie Motes Bennewitz)
Mike Boyle, Karen Como and Ann Becker Moore.
Color Guard (Photo/Jay Dirnberger)
Long Lots Girl Scouts Troop 50999. (Photo/Melissa Salottolo)
(Photo/Pat Saviano)
Grayson Braun and her father Conrad. He served as a US Army Captain in the 4th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. He received the Distinguished Service Cross, the second highest distinction for gallantry in combat. He comes from his home in Texas every year to honor Memorial Day here. (Photo/Jamie Walsh)
Grand Marshal Charles Lamb Jr. was a combat pilot in the Korean War. (Photo/Dan Woog)
(Photo/Eve Potts)
Great mix ‼️🇺🇸
great pix Dan. great event . shout out to Jen Tooker for making the call to march; I heard some were cancelled . Salute to all the fallen today , and especially missing Bill Vornkahl too.
Great pix Dan! If I’m not mistaken the photo of the Driscoll family includes my old classmate Dennis on the far left, top row. I remember driving around in Scott Bennewitz’s dad’s Mercedes back in the day, and am pleased to see he’s keeping up the tradition. Finally, a big salute from a fellow veteran to CPT Braun for his distinguished service in Vietnam with the 4th ID!
Tom, my father in law Conrad returns the salute and thanks you for your service!