Image Gallery: Burlington Remembers Those Lost Defending Our Nation

Burlington honored America's veterans and those lost defending our freedoms with a morning of ceremonies in honor of Memorial Day, Monday, May 30.

The services began with the traditional morning Flag Raising Ceremony on the town commons. Bob Hogan, Director of Burlington Veterans Services, presided over the ceremony, which featured the raising of the flag by members of the Burlington American Legion.

The ceremony was well-attended by members of the community, local veterans and Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops.

The flag raising was followed by a talk by local historian Michael Tredeau who gave a history of the American Civil War on the 150th Anniversary of the start of the conflict. Tredeau paid special homage to members of the Union Army from Massachusetts, some of who were among the first casualties of the conflict.

State Senator Ken Donnellywas also present at the ceremony and spoke to the crowd about honoring the brave men and women in uniform who risk, and have given, their lives to protect America's liberties.

The morning ceremony finished with Tredeau and Burlington American Legion Commander Kirk Post placing a wreath in front of Burlington's memorial to its fallen heroes. 

Following the morning ceremony everyone moved over to Chestnut Hill Cemetery for a second, larger ceremony. Participants in the ceremony paraded into the cemetery accompanied by music by the Burlington High School Marching Band.

The ceremony began with opening comments and the Pledge of Allegiance by Hogan, followed by a singing of the National Anthem by Burlington High School junior Zaven Ovian.

Reverend Francesco Passamonte Chaplain, Maj. USAF read a prayer remembering and honoring those lost in conflict. Chairman of the Board of Selectmen Walter Zenkin also spoke, encouraging those in attendance to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifice made by our country's soldiers and their families.

Lt. Col. Brian Marshall U.S.A.F Ret. Tuskegee Airmen also spoke during the memorial ceremony, providing the history of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African American pilot division of the U.S. Air Force.

The ceremony was closed by Post and Marshall placing a wreath on a memorial at the cemetery in honor of Burlington's veterans.

See the photos and their accompanying captions for more information on the day's services. Burlington Patch will also soon have a video posted featuring additional images, speeches and parts of the ceremony.