Memorial Day memory

By Barb on May 26, 2008 1:31 PM

Chellie invited interns and staff to spend Memorial Day with her in her home town of North Haven. It was a beautiful day, and we had a great time holding our weekly staff meeting while sitting on the porch of Chellie's inn, Nebo Lodge. The sunshine and fresh air seemed to inspire extra creative thinking as we brainstormed plans for the state convention and had a final moment to breathe before the hectic times of the last two campaign weeks.

But one of the unexpected pleasures was attending a very moving Memorial Day parade and ceremony in North Haven. Maybe it's because North Haven is a small town, but it seemed as though the parade was a very personal and meaningful experience for each of the more than 100 people who attended or participated.

I was especially touched by the reading of the names of all the men and women who've served in U.S. wars, starting with the Revolutionary War. I couldn't help but reflect on the impact of this on the young kids who were at the ceremony -- what a great lesson in American history, as well as an intimate look at the human cost of war.

Another highlight was North Haven's postmaster, David Cooper, reading the Gettysburg Address with solemnity and conviction. It seemed absolutely appropriate -- pitch perfect for the occasion.