Published June 04. 2024 11:42AM
by Dana Grubb Special to the Bethlehem Press
Longtime and newer traditions have become a Memorial Day staple in Bethlehem and despite the threat of inclement weather May 27 went off as scheduled.
The newer Taps Over Bethlehem had 60 trumpeters playing “Taps” throughout the city, culminated by their full gathering in Memorial Park Cemetery to play a number of traditional service and patriotic selections that also included “Taps’” lyrics sung by Alana Rader.
The longer running Memorial Day parade from Liberty HS out Linden Street to Memorial Park Cemetery for the traditional service that recognizes servicemen and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for America, drew hundreds of area residents. This year’s parade featured the Bethlehem Catholic Golden Hawk Marching Band, Scouting Troop 3193, various veterans and Bethlehem’s Police Department, along with a handful of local elected officials including State Rep. Steve Samuelson, Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure and Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds.
Once situated in Memorial Park Cemetery, speeches, readings, music, a 21 gun salute and remembrances express much gratitude for the sacrifices of many who served. United Veterans & American Legion Post 379 president Ken Nichol led the program. The Bethlehem American Legion and Golden Hawk bands provided music. Scouting Troop 3193 members Nevaeh Feliciano and Lexi Cable read “Band of Brothers” and the “Gettysburg Address,” and Lehigh Valley Academy student Jaeda Rae Mory read “Flanders Fields.”
“Thank you for taking the time to come her today,” said Samuelson and Reynolds expressed gratitude “for those who came before us.” McClure, whose grandfather Elmo McClure, a U.S. Navy corpsman killed in World War II in the battle of Okinawa, called the United States “the greatest force for good in the world.”
The 60 participants in ‘Taps Over Bethlehem' perform “Eternal Father” en masse.
“Taps Over Bethlehem” organizer Mitch Huston speaks about the initiative.
Trumpeter Alana Rader sings the lyrics to “Taps,” “May the sailor or soldier, God keep.”
Bethlehem resident Terry Walter waits at the Memorial Cemetery entrance for the approaching parade. She and her husband Charles attend every year.
Bethlehem's Memorial Day parade approaches led by the Bethlehem Police Department's motorcycle division and color guard. Bethlehem Memorial Day coverage continues on A2 and A4.
Members of the Marine Corps League Detachment #284 lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
United Veterans & American Legion Post 379 president Ken Nichol conducted the service.
Third grader Jaeda Rae Mory reads “Flanders Fields.” She attends Lehigh Valley Academy.
Neveah Feliciano reads “Band of Brothers.” She is a member of Scout Troop 3193.
Scout Troop 3193 member Lexi Cable reads the “Gettysburg Address.”
press photos by dana grubb A 21-gun rifle salute is performed by members of American Legion Post 379.
Scout Troop 3193 parades in full force presenting various flags and banners.
A scout passes by handing out flags to spectators along Linden Street.
The Bethlehem Catholic Golden Hawk Marching Band is the featured performer in this year's Memorial Day parade.
A veteran with trumpet at his side gives a salute during the playing of “The Star Spangled Banner.”
Ralph Brodt III plays Taps to end the service.
