The Memorial Day Parade

The Upper Valley Community Band gathered in Norwich, VT to play, For the annual Memorial Day Parade to commemorate the day. Band members piled on the truck and wagon in anticipation, Readying stands and music with enthusiastic exhilaration. I crowded in with my flute and stand, Eager to get the parade going with the community band. We played patriotic songs as we rolled down the street. Our little band seemed to make the Memorial Day Parade complete. Winding our way through town, we were quite the sight, As we performed national songs to the crowd’s delight. Some people just listened, and some sang along. For Memorial Day, this is where we all belonged. We stopped at the cemetery, and the crowd was quiet, As a band member played “Taps” to reverent silence. Afterwards, I brought my flute up to my lips to play, But the tears flooding my eyes got in the way. We remember the fallen soldiers in this country on Memorial Day. Think of the ones that paid the ultimate sacrifice as you pray. We honor the men and women that have died for this great nation, And take this day to remember their lives in celebration.