WILTON – For those who have lost loved ones, every day is Memorial Day.

William Chambers, a resident and veteran, was the guest speaker at the annual Memorial Day observance on Monday. He recalled the services rendered by generations of his family.

“For those we honor today,” he said, “serving was just the right thing to do.”

Although never having to face what they faced, he said, “I believe I have learned about honor.” He spoke of ancestors and relatives in the Civil War, both world wars, and in Korea. “My uncle was in the Battle of the Bulge, one of the worst winters in history. Their stories and their wit left a lasting impression on me. My grandparents were immigrants, but their children saw service. My father was in Vietnam.”

He added, “We remember people like these, who didn’t return from Europe, Vietnam, or Afghanistan. We have to remember them in the conduct of our lives.”

Robert Paro, commander of American Legion Post 10, served as Master of Ceremonies, and spoke of honor. “We need to renew our pledge of loyalty and the duty of patriotism. Those who served,” he said, “wrote a blank check to this country, up to and including their lives.”

He noted that this year is the 100th anniversary of the American Legion, and June 6 will be the 75th anniversary of D-Day.

Marchers included the Temple Band, Post 10 color guard and firing squad, Legion Auxiliary and Sons of the Legion; Boy and Girl Scouts; the Lafayette Artillery Company with their horse-drawn 1844 cannon and horsewoman Rhonda Hettinger; and a vintage WWII Jeep carrying older veterans.

Ceremonies closed with the laying of a wreath by the Ladies Auxiliary, the firing squad’s Salute to the Dead and the playing of Taps.

A reception followed at the Post Home.