Maureen Miller Brosnan
summed up the feelings of many attending A Livonia Memorial Day Cerremony by acknowledging that it was "
Such a beautiful tribute. Another example of Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church stepping in and doing what the community needs when it needs it. Thank you Rev. Kellie Whitlock and team."
People lined up in Mies Park, bringing their chairs with some sitting on the ground. Reverend Kellie Whitlock welcomed everyone to the Ceremony as first responders and retired military stood at attention next to the 23 crosses. Each representing one member of the armed services, retired or active, who commit suicide every day.
Mayor Brosnan read off over 150 names of family
and friends, names that had been dropped off over the weekend as the display with bag pipes played every night.
As each name was read Sandra Main- Niemisto would ring a bell.
You looked around and saw faces that looked familiar, names read of parents of classmates. Two members of the city council, Cathy White and Brandon McCullough not in the spotlight but rather there just to be a part of an evening of appreciation for those who have passed away.
With a gentle breeze, the shade offered by the towering trees of Mies Park, the solemn atmosphere made for a special night as many had the name (s) of family members, friends and neighbors spoken by the Mayor. The typewriter smiled as Richard Joyner, US Army, was read off, memories cascading over me. The after dinner exercise routine on the front lawn--dad showing off the exercises he led the squad in every morning. Finding his diary of his tour in the Pacific Theatre. The stories of meeting his wife to be.
I know that the bodyguard was thinking the same about her father Louis Ventittelli, US Army.
You could not participate in this without feeling a sense of remembrance. Remembrance of all those who came before us. Whether you served in the military or not there was a profound feeling of gratitude. And a hope that there would be a weekend like this the same time next year. See you again Dad.
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