WILTON – In a country that is now divided politically and other ways, it is important to remember, Maj. General Harry Miller, Ret., told those gathered near the newly refurbished war memorials on Forest Street to observe Memorial Day on Monday morning. “It is important to honor those who fought to preserve our rights and freedoms.”

Miller, a 38-year veteran with the U.S. Army and the N.H. National Guard, noted the history of the observance, created after the Civil War as Decoration Day, and a federal holiday since 1971.

“We are a country divided by inflation and violent crime,, Our history is being erased and there is little compromise. But,” he said, “this is still the greatest country in the world.”

It is important for people to be involved, he said. “Exercise your right to vote. Freedom isn’t free.”

The American Legion, Post 10, hosted the celebrations for the first time in two years, with just about everyone returning for the observance. The parade was led by the Post color guard and the Temple Band, followed by the Legion firing squad, Lafayette Artillery Company of Lyndeborough with their horse-drawn 1844 cannon, Sons of the American Legion, the Legion Auxiliary, Scouts, and veterans.

Wilton’s oldest army veteran, Leslie Tallarico, 97, rode in an original 1942 Jeep.

Sam Boette read “In Flanders Fields,” followed by Pat Condon with “America’s Answer.” Jacob Manning presented “The Gettysburg Address.”

In a special presentation, Katherine Rockwood sang, with several friends, “Memorial Day,” a song written by her mother in the 1980s. She also led the singing on the National Anthem at the close of the ceremonies.

” a song written by her mother

The band played several traditional songs.

Members of the Auxiliary placed a wreath in the river for those lost at sea.

The firing squad saluted the dead and Taps was played.

The parade returned to the Post Home on Maple Street for a time of community.

Later in the morning, members of the Legion viited each of the town’s cemeteries for ceremonies.

•••

LYNDEBOROUGH – The Memorial Day parade was almost back to normal with the Lafayette Artillery Company’s color guard and horse-drawn cannon, American Legion Post 10 color guard from Wilton, veterans, fire trucks, and President Lincoln in the person of Steve Wood of Claremont. It was silent, however, since the usual fife and drum corps was unable to attend for lack of members.

On a beautiful spring afternoon, several dozen people gathered on the Village Common for traditional exercises: patriotic readings, a salute to the dead in front of the war memorials, and the playing of Taps. Wood told a story about President Lincoln before reciting the Gettysburg Address. Several young people read poems. Lorraine Strube served as Mistress of Ceremonies as she has for many years.

Flags remained a half-mast in honor of those recently killed at a Texas school.

Following the ceremonies, the Artillery crew fired their 1844 cannon.