Memorial Day 2019
Was honored once again to photograph the annual Memorial Day observance in Hiram, Ohio. Of all the events that I shoot, this one stands out as the most meaningful and thoughts of it remain with me all year. The parade, essentially just a brief march to the Village cemetery, is a joy to behold. It is quintessential small-town America at its finest.
Photographically the event is totally problematic. The task is to shoot quality people pictures under the unflattering glare of the noon day sun. I rely on a handheld flash to fill in shadows and overcome the greenish skin tones that result from sun filtering through tree leaves. During the ceremony I try to remain as inconspicuous as possible, but at the same time having to constantly pop up to get photos. My mind bounces back and forth between the solemnity of the proceedings and the creative and technical challenges of documenting the event.
Here’s a sort of chronological look at the parade and ceremony as seen through my eyes.
Written and photographed by Dave Dreimiller
I always try for a group shot of the speakers just before the parade moves out. It’s often the only chance I’ll have to get everyone in a single photo. The lighting condition is horrendous with some people in full shade and others in full sun.
The parade is a living tribute to the axiom that less is more and the beauty lies in its sheer simplicity. A police car leading a marching band; Mayor Bertrand and the dignitaries march behind. followed by a couple of fire trucks.
The weather was absolutely beautiful as it always seems to be here in the Village during this event. The brilliant sky formed a perfect backdrop for the high school marching band.
I step off with the parade but walk quickly to get ahead of it. I pass small knots of spectators along the short route; people standing in front yards of houses and along the sidewalk. The breeze blows the many American flags fluttering from the utility poles. I can hear the sound of the marching band behind me. I pause at the top of the hill to gaze back at the parade and capture this iconic photo.
Across from the cemetery I spot Dick Spencer watching the parade from his front porch. An old 48-star flag hangs overhead. I scramble up the embankment and capture this image.
Chief Gregory distributes programs to audience members.
LTC David Simms was the invited speaker this year. I had him pose in front of the American flag in the minutes before the presentation began. Someone Kindly held the flag out for me as the wind lapsed just as I began shooting.
Debra Blake and Colonel Simms.
Another must-get photo at this event is Mayor Bertrand with the invited speaker. I try to get this shot right before the presentation as the background is normally clear of spectators.
Father Steven Zigler of Saint Ambrose Church offers the invocation.
Mayor Lou Bertrand at the podium.
A navy veteran was on hand for the ceremony. I caught this image as he raised his hand in salute.
Sam Bixler introduces LTC Simms.
LTC Simms at the podium to deliver his remarks. Great to hear the thoughts of this highly-decorated combat veteran and leader.
John Groselle delivers Lincoln’s Gettysburg address.
Hiram public safety members pay respects during the ceremony.
Debra Blake reads the roll call of veterans.
Was taken by the woman holding the miniature American flag aloft during the entire reading of the roll call of veterans.
Rob Dempsey reads the roll call of veterans.
Geraniums are set out on the grave of each veteran in Fairview Cemetery.
I love the moments that follow the conclusion of the ceremony as people embrace and wish one another well.
I always try for a final group shot of the speakers before everyone departs the cemetery. However in this case I lost a couple members before the photo. That’s Damaris Peters Pike out in front. She sang the national anthem at the beginning of the ceremony however I did not get a photo of her performance.