Monday, May 30, the town of Gorham turned out in support of our Veterans for the Memorial Day parade and corresponding ceremonies. The town was bustling as crowds of people gathered on South and Main Streets, celebrating, cheering, and honoring our service members for their commitment, bravery, sacrifice, and perseverance.

The parade began with a wreath laying ceremony at Phinney Park, with the help of the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. The Gorham VFW post 10879 led the way through the parade route, followed by an array of local organizations all marching in honor of Memorial Day. Following the parade, a ceremony honoring the lives of fallen soldiers took place at the Eastern Cemetery.

The Gorham High School Marching Band played the National Anthem followed by a wreath laying ceremony. Jean Osborne Libby was honored for the loss of her brother, Bob Osborne, a soldier who served and died in World War 2.

A powerful speech was given by guest speaker Col. Buff Burkel of Illinois. Col. Burkel, a wounded warrior, spoke about connection, looking at the people around us, and recognizing that there is so much good in our community. She reminded us that showing up as a community to pay respect to those who will never take off the uniform connects us, “The folks we are celebrating today believed in the good that is within all of us.”