Scarsdale's Memorial Day Parade

Freedom isn't Free was the phrase of the day on Memorial Day - Monday May 25, when the nation honored soldiers lost to war. Scarsdale hosted its annual Memorial Day parade and festivities, which were both big successes.

The parade brought together local veterans who as members of the American Legion Scarsdale Post #52, organized the day. One member, Reverend Theodore (Ted) Gaskin, Deacon at St. Pius X Church spoke about his service in World War Two. Reverend Gaskin discussed his part in the battle of Guadalcanal, and a list he carries of comrades who died during the war. He mentioned that these soldiers were "just boys, 17, or 18 years old." The list is headlined, "Lest We Forget," and Reverend Gaskin has assured they never will be forgotten.

The first item on the agenda for the festivities was the annual parade, which started by the World War II Memorial at Boniface Circle, and proceeded to the corner of Chase and Popham Roads, before moving up Popham, across Church Lane past St. James the Less, and back down into the Village to Chase Park. The Scarsdale Color Guard led the parade, followed by Veterans and their families, then the Girl and Boy Scouts. After that came Little League players, The High School Band followed directly after playing marching tunes, and the Fire Department, Ambulance Corps and their vehicles rounded out the procession. After completing the parade, several speeches were given and boy and girl scouts received annual awards.

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The day began and ended with the playing of Taps, the somber funeral tone created by General Daniel Butterfield during the Civil War to signal lights out. As Master of Ceremonies Robert T. Gillin commented, Taps always seems to make him, and others, very emotional with its somber notes.

Notable speakers during the speaking part of the celebration included, Retired Brigadier General Donald Lee Singer, Scarsdale Mayor Jonathan Mark, and Reverend Tom Newcomb. New York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin was unable to speak during the festivities, although she did join in with the parade. Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts were also honored with awards for achieving high ranks, and for their exceptional work over the past year, since last Memorial Day.

Video footage of the parade can be found here.