Memorial Day

Over the past few years I have volunteered to photograph the annual Memorial Day observance here in Hiram, Ohio. It’s a way to show respect for veterans while preserving a visual record of the proceedings. The event also provides tons of small town atmosphere which I thrive upon. A small parade forms in front of the post office and makes its way up Route 82 to Fairview Cemetery. There the dignitaries assemble for speeches and a roll call of the veterans buried in the local cemeteries. Sadly, each year the list grows longer. This year the guest speaker was the Honorable Judge John Eklund who was introduced by Hiram College President David Haney. The Crestwood High School Scarlet Guard marching band was on hand to perform patriotic songs. The day was hot and brilliant, with scarcely a cloud in the sky. A chilling moment for me is the sound of a lone bugle playing taps. The notes drift eerily through the cemetery.