Students, Veterans Lead Memorial Day Observances in Watertown
- Dan Hogan
- May 29
- 1 min read
Students, veterans, local officials, and community members gathered across Watertown over Memorial Day weekend to honor the men and women who gave their lives in military service. The weekend kicked off with the Watertown Public Schools Memorial Day Assembly at Watertown Middle/High School. T
he program featured student presentations on the history of Memorial Day, performances by the high school band and chorus, and tributes to local veterans including Private First Class Richard Moxley, who was killed in Vietnam.
Following the assembly, veterans and residents gathered at the Commander’s Mansion for the annual Poppy Social. The event included a ceremonial wreath laying at the Freedom Garden, which is lined with engraved bricks honoring local veterans. Speakers reflected on the symbolism of the red poppy and the importance of remembering those who never returned home.
Then on Monday, despite heavy rain just before the event, the skies cleared in time for Watertown’s annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. Marching bands, veterans organizations, scouts, youth groups, and public safety departments made their way through the city before a ceremony at Victory Field.
During the ceremony, speakers including City Council President Mark Sideris and Marine Corps veteran George McMasters reflected on the sacrifices made by service members and their families. The event concluded with the playing of taps and a gathering for veterans and community members at the Marine Corps League Shed Detachment.
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