PHOTO BY BARB BARRETT/The Luminary Casey Blair, winner of the 2015 Memorial Day essay contest sponsored by the American Legon Post 268 in Muncy.

MUNCY – Monday, Memorial Day, was a perfect weather day and many lined the streets for Muncy’s annual parade and Memorial service at the Muncy Cemetery.

At noon Commander Ken Lowe welcomed everyone and introduced Reverend Faron Johnson from St. John’s Evangelical Church who gave the invocation followed by guest speaker, Troy Kemmerer, director of the Naval Recruiting Station in Williamsport.

Emphasizing the duty of patriotism, a warm welcome was given to Kemmerer who graduated from the Naval War College, served on two submarines and has received many military awards and naval accomplishments.

“Today we honor our heroes, remember their achievements, courage and dedication,” he told the audience. “It gives me a feeling of awe of the enormity of what we have encountered,” remarked Kemmerer regarding the line of duty of the years for soldiers in all the wars. “All walks of life with fundamental courage and selflessness to serve a cause much greater than themselves,” he continued.

American Legion Post 268 Secretary Sue Lowe introduced Casey Blair from Muncy High School who won the 2015 essay contest and received a check for her outstanding support to our veterans. Her speech reinforced the need for continuing care for our veterans. “We owe so much to our men and women who give their lives to protect our safety,” Blair said while asking for support to appreciate our veterans. “This is our time to take action. Their needs are ongoing. These are ordinary people who respond in ordinary ways during extreme times.”

“We gather today to remember and honor a small spark of pride that burns through our nation, so that we can all live in freedom.”

The ceremony concluded with a benediction and music from the Muncy High School Band. Refreshments were served until 2 p.m. at the Muncy American Legion.