Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey supplied 16 photographs. The Editor took three photos of the MHS Band and Choir and Mark Schuler’s certificate.
Morrison, IL, began its celebration of America’s 157th Decoration Day/Memorial Day parade, on Monday, May 29, 2023. It began at 10:30 a.m. with a Main Street parade and continued with the traditional ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park, on High Street. For the last time, James Prombo welcomed those gathered, after many years as program organizer.
Presiding Pastor Father James Brzezinski, of St. Anne Episcopal Church in Morrison, offered the Invocation; later he would give a Benediction. The American Legion Honor Guard approached the pavilion. Two Color Guards–William Brackemyer, U. S. Army, and Amy Johannsen, U. S. Air Force–posted the Colors.
Presiding Pastor Father James Brzezinski, of St. Anne Episcopal Church in Morrison, offered the Invocation; later he would give a Benediction. The American Legion Honor Guard approached the pavilion. Two Color Guards–William Brackemyer, U. S. Army, and Amy Johannsen, U. S. Air Force–posted the Colors.
Post Commander Larry Zuidema read a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of Mark Schuler, who was not in attendance. Schuler has served in countless parades as driver for local dignitaries.
Morrison High School music students added to the event, after being interrupted for a few years by COVID-19. Seventeen-of-19 Band members played during the parade and performed two numbers at the Park, directed by Ms. Kelsey Pudlas: “The Star Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America.”
Vocal Music Director Mrs. Erin Morris led the Choir in singing “In Flanders Fields.”
Wes Haan of Morrison was Guest Speaker. He honored his uncles’ and father’s military service. Click here to read Haan’s presentation and explanation of the boots he wore.
After the Benediction, the Memorial Wreath was placed; a Rifle Salute occurred; Carolyn Aiken performed “Taps;” the Colors were retired.
Below left-to-right are Jesse Habben, Rebecca Bowers, Susan Wilkens, Dawn Bush, Emalie Sterenberg, and Lisa Bush holding Lucas. The friends have been riding in the Memorial Parade for more than ten years.
Community State Bank supplied the humongous American Flag, and Emmanuel Church members carried it along.
