Published June 08. 2023 02:38PM
by Dana Grubb Special to the Bethlehem Press
Bethlehem’s annual Memorial Day parade and remembrance service in the Memorial Park Cemetery drew hundreds of area residents under a blue and sunny morning sky on May 29. The United Veterans and American Legion Post 379, under the leadership of president Ken Nichol, and the Lehigh Valley Military Affairs Council coordinated the event with support from the City of Bethlehem. The Marine Corps League Detachment led attendees in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The Liberty High School Grenadier Band and Bethlehem American Legion Band performed the “Star Spangled Banner.” Recitations were read by Lehigh Valley Academy Regional Charter School students Harper Turner, Jaime Gladden, Jade Taylor and Easton Rowohit. Local elected officials, Mayor J. William Reynolds, Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure and State Representative Steve Samuelson addressed those attending. “Think about hearts that no longer beat,” said McClure, referencing the many who gave their lives serving our country in the military. Major General Jerry Still urged everyone to remember the home-front’s sacrifices to support our military during armed conflict. Ken Nichol placed a wreath in honor of the Blue Star Mothers and the American Legion Post 379 rifle squad fired a 21-gun salute, followed by Ralph Brodt playing “Taps” at the end of the service.
The Bethlehem Police Department's motorcycle division and honor guard lead the Memorial day parade.
Twenty-one year old Bethlehem resident Mercedes Long donned her patriotic outfit to honor the sacrifices of our military members.
Bethlehem area scouting groups march past and present the American Flag.
The Allentown Area Corvette Club drove their popular sports cars.
Majorettes lead the Liberty High School Grenadier Band along the Linden Street parade route.
Musicians conduct ‘Taps over Bethlehem' gathered in Memorial Park Cemetery to play The Navy Hymn, “Eternal Father.”
The American Legion Post #379 Rifle Squad stands at attention and salutes during the playing of the National Anthem.
A young girl waves an American flag during the service.
The Bethlehem American Legion Band performs a patriotic musical selection.
Harper Turner, a student at the Lehigh Valley Regional Charter School, recites President Abraham Lincoln's “Gettysburg Address.”
Ralph Brodt performs “Taps” at the conclusion of the Memorial Day service.
