Memorial Day - 2006 - An Album of Plainfield's Ceremony

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A crowd of about 70 gathered with representatives of Plainfield's veterans organizations and Mayor Sharon Robinson-Briggs on Monday, May 29th, in the annual Memorial Day service at the War Memorial at East Seventh Street and Watchung Avenue. With bright sun, ample shade and mild temperatures, the day was perfect. The service was better organized and paced than it has been for several years. Mayor Robinson-Briggs spoke simply and directly to an attentive audience. Her remarks captured very well the essence of this day: its roots in reconciling North and South and then as a day of remembrance for all those who have made the supreme sacrifice for their country. She called on everyone to visit the graves of veterans later in the day and to honor them by placing flags or flowers. In a welcome -- and moving -- departure from the customary moment of silence, the Mayor invited all present to call aloud the names of those they particularly wished remembered. Many participants responded and names were heard softly on the wind -- now from here in the crowd and now from there -- over the course of the period of silence. Remembering the valor and sacrifices of those who served in the past and are serving today, the only thing missing was how many more could have gathered to honor the day. A selection of photos is below. (As always, click on the photo for a larger view.) -- Dan Damon

The Veterans' Color Guard

The Veterans' Rifle Squad

Plainfield High School Jr. ROTC Color Guard

Mayor Robinson-Briggs addresses the veterans and attendees

A view of the attendees

Another view of the attendees