Memorial Day was observed Monday in Hampton as community members gathered at Band Shell Park to honor those who died in military service.
The annual ceremony featured music from the Hampton-Dumont-CAL and community band, presentation of wreaths, patriotic readings and the traditional 13 folds of the American flag. Lt. Col. Brad Teggatz, current member of United States Army Reserves, served as keynote speaker during the service, which aired live on 104.9 KLMJ.
“Memorial Day honors those who never returned home. We speak their names. We remember their stories, ensuring that their sacrifice is never forgotten. But it is also about the living, the families who carry an empty seat at the table, the battle buddies who feel the loss and as a nation striving to be worthy of their sacrifice. As service members, veterans and citizens, we inherit the responsibility to carry their legacy forward. Through our actions, our service and our commitment to the values for which they gave their lives.”
Organizers also honored veterans through readings of the Gettysburg Address and “In Flanders Fields,” along with moments of remembrance throughout the morning ceremony.
“Freedom is not an abstract concept. It is a gift, purchased at a tremendous cost. While we can never repay the debt, we can honor it by living with purpose, supporting our communities, caring for military families, and telling the stories of the fallen to future generations. Today, let us pause, let us reflect, and let us remember those husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters who laid down their lives so that we may live ours. Let us commit ourselves to carrying forward the torch they have passed to us. May we honor our fallen not just with words, but through the lives we lead.”
The Memorial Day observance was hosted by Hampton American Legion Post 183.
Photo, (courtesy of Colt Powers), of keynote speaker, Lt. Col. Brad Teggatz, who spoke on the meaning of Memorial Day.
Full audio from Teggatz below
