Remembering those who made 'the ultimate sacrifice'

Wet weather fails to dampen spirits on Memorial Day

By Joan D. Warren
Posted 5/30/17

The 149th celebration of Memorial Day in Barrington went on despite rain showers that canceled the parade but not the spirit of the day. 

Organized by the United Veterans Council, civic pride …

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Remembering those who made 'the ultimate sacrifice'

Wet weather fails to dampen spirits on Memorial Day

Posted

The 149th celebration of Memorial Day in Barrington went on despite rain showers that canceled the parade but not the spirit of the day. 

Organized by the United Veterans Council, civic pride was clearly on display by the number of people who came out despite the weather. The annual laying of the wreath, raising of the flag by Barrington Boy Scout Troop 2 and Honor Guard firing ceremonies took place at Victory Field Memorial Gate at the high school as well as the roll call of deceased veterans read by Col. Charles Brule.

Ceremonies continued in the auditorium of the high school, under the direction of Lt. Colonel Paul. C. Dulchinos.

The national anthem was sung by the Barrington High School Chorus under the direction of Celeste Lebonte and the Barrington High School band performed a medley of patriotic songs.

The Pawtuxet Rangers performed for the estimated 300 in attendance and the members of the police and fire departments' color guards and marching units proceeded to the front of the auditorium.

Congressman David Cicillini and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse offered comments to the crowd of veterans, scouts, students and parents.

“We get to live in the freest country in the world due to the dedication of those who died for our country. We should all recommit ourselves to those in uniform today,” Congressman Cicilline said.

Sen. Whitehouse offered a tribute to David Bates, a longtime state senator and Barrington resident who passed away earlier this year.

“Dave Bates was at every event and his legacy lives on with the flagpole at Victory Gates,” Sen. Whitehouse said.

Barrington Town Council President Mike Carroll told the crowd that we all make sacrifices, but the day was about the ultimate sacrifice made by those who died for our country.

“We can honor them by remembering and participating in our democracy by the simple act of voting, donating our time and talent to our community and striving for the values that are written in the Declaration of Independence,” Mr. Carroll said.
The keynote speaker was Col. Robert Cassidy who said this day was an opportunity for Americans to revere, remember and reflect.

“Revere this event and the community spirit rain or shine...remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice… and reflect in the reasons why we fight in the first place,” he said.

The Gettysburg Address was beautifully orated by Barrington Middle School student Lia Douglas and the poem, Flanders Field, was strongly delivered by Barrington High School freshman Ari Dulchinos.

The invocation and benediction prayers were given by Champlain Major Tim Bourquin and Honorary Grand Marshall was Capt. Charles Reade, a Vietnam War veteran.

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