A solid representation from patriotic participants at the Milford Flag Placement Day event came from Milford VFW Post 4368, Boy Scout Troop 1794, Wilton American Legion Post 10 members and many other attendees aged 96 to 5 years old. Courtesy photo by WENDY MACE

MILFORD – A patriotic display of respect for the 700 veterans resting in peace at the 40-acre Riverside Cemetery on Nashua Street in Milford was observed on May 18 during the fifth annual Milford Flag Placement Day, a ritual hosted in advance of Memorial Day, May 26.

Appreciation was expressed by Milford local Jay Duffy, who coordinated the event, one whose patronage originated with Milford Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4368, Wilton American Legion Post 10, Boy Scout Troop 1794, Milford High School’s Spartans sports teams and many more supporters.

“This is really full circle for me, as we are placing flags for the World War II heroes who taught me the importance of showing respect for our veterans,” said Duffy.

“It certainly is humbling to see the Milford High School baseball team and the lacrosse team among so many town citizens coming to pay homage.”

Duffy noted the attendance of some former Milford natives who traveled to their hometown from as far away as Chicago and upstate New York.

“This day of respect and honor for our Milford veterans surely represents the Milford I grew up knowing,” he added. “I believe this tradition defines who we are as people.”

The expanse of the cemetery, maintained and stewarded by the Milford Department of Public Works is open to visitors. More information on the site is available online at milfordnh.gov.