Excitement was contagious at the North Webster Memorial Day Parade. (Photos by Elisa Walker)

NORTH WEBSTER — North Webster residents were undeterred by the cloudy skies and set out to view the Memorial Day Parade, creating a large turnout. Observers immediately began following behind the tail-end of the parade to the North Webster Cemetery for the ceremony.

American Legion Post 253 spoke about the true meaning of Memorial Day, which is to honor the fallen soldiers who didn’t make it back home. PK Smith led the prayer, followed by Chris Crabtree who read Congressman Jim Banks’s letter.

Post Commander Jeff Spickelmier introduced special speaker Heather Aills, who served as an active duty trauma medic. Aills comes from a family with extensive involvement in the military and delivered a heartfelt speech.

Heather Aills had the crowd enraptured by her speech.

“I think Memorial Day taking place in May is very fitting. It symbolizes warmth, joy and life — especially after the winter we’ve had,” said Aills.

To continue the passion, Russ Chandler belted “God Bless the U.S.A.” to the crowd. Chandler made his was around, shaking hands and hugging individuals while the crowd sang along.

Silence overcame assembly as the names of the deceased were read before the ceremony ended. As North Webster residents made their way back to their vehicles and homes to enjoy the holiday there was an ambiance of gratitude that would last the rest of the day.

On June 9, the legion will be retiring flags and will be accepting old flags from the public that need to be retired.