Published June 07. 2022 12:07PM
Bethlehem’s annual Memorial Day service, parade and more recent tradition of Taps over Bethlehem drew hundreds of area residents who gathered to remember service members who gave their in service to their country.
Sponsored by the United Veterans of Bethlehem, the Lehigh Valley Military Affairs Council and City of Bethlehem attendees were reminded through spoken word and patriotic music that extreme sacrifices are what have ensured the freedom Americans enjoy each day.
In speeches by Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds, Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure and State Representative Steve Samuelson, the thread of personal sacrifice was repeated.
“Those that paid the ultimate price are why we are here,” Reynolds said. The Bethlehem American Legion, Northeast MS and Freedom HS bands performed a number of musical selections.
Lehigh Valley Academy Honor Society students read the Gettysburg Address, and poems “In Flanders Fields” and “Band of Brothers.”
The service concluded with a volley by American Legion Post 379 rifle squad and the playing of Taps by Ken Brodt.
Area Boy Scouts were also recognized for removing worn flags from the gravesites of veterans at Memorial Park Cemetery and replacing them with new flags.
Patriotically holding her American flag, 5-year-old Bethlehem resident Audrey awaits the approach of the Memorial Day parade at the entrance to Memorial Park Cemetery.
PRESS PHOTOS BY DANA GRUBB Bethlehem's police motor patrol stands at attention and salutes the stars and stripes as the Memorial Day parade turns into the cemetery. More photos on A2.
A small group of Vietnam era veterans march in the parade.
The Freedom HS Patriot Band represented Bethlehem area high schools in this year's parade.
The Northeast MS Hornets Band represented middle schools in this year's parade.
Elected officials and Memorial Day program organizers pledge allegiance to the flag.
Isabella Scheirer, a Lehigh Valley Academy student, reads the “Gettysburg Address.”
Lehigh Valley Academy student Kai Thomas reads the poem “In Flanders Fields.”
Kaleah Thomas, a student at Lehigh Valley Academy, reads the poem “Band of Brothers.”
The American Legion Post 379 rifle squad fires a traditional 21-gun salute to honor the fallen.
Ralph Brodt plays “Taps” to conclude the service.
Memorial #12: Participants in Taps over Bethlehem perform “Eternal Father/The Navy Hymn” prior to the parade and service.
