Memorial Day 2021

I was honored to attend and photograph the Memorial Day observance in Hiram Village on May 31, 2021. The event was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic. If anything, the interruption of a year made this year’s event seem even more poignant than it already is for me. It was surprising in a way how easily everyone seemed to resume their participation. It was great to see old friends and acquaintances, and meet new people along the way. Memorial Day in Hiram is steeped in tradition. As a long-time resident, it’s great to see how the observance has evolved over the years. It’s times like this I really come to appreciate the small town ambience. It’s something that our guests always comment on. This year’s speakers were Portage County Commissioner Tony Badalamenti and Admiral Michael Parks, RADM, USCG (Ret). Hiram Mayor Lou Bertrand presided. Township Trustees Steve Pancost, Debra Blake, and Jack Groselle were on hand. Mrs. Damaris Peters Pike sang the National Anthem. Rev. Father Lee Martin gave the invocation and benediction. Crestwood School’s Scarlet Guard provided the musical backdrop. The procession stepped off from the historic Hiram Christian Church at noon and made its way to Fairview Cemetery. Onlookers greeted the procession along the way.

Dave Dreimiller