Memorial Day 2021

Hampton celebrated Memorial Day on Monday, May 31, with a parade through town that ended at the Hampton Cemetery for a ceremonial presentation.

The parade consisted of the Bulldog Marching Band that led cars carrying the honored speaker Adam Akers, members of the American Legion and Legion Auxiliary, and the Hampton Fire Department.

When the parade arrived in the cemetery, Chaplain Jim Zackerias, led those who attended in prayer and presented the colors.

Michael Rosenberg, the son of Jeff and Megan Rosenberg, read "General Logan's Orders".

John A. Logan was the Commander-in-Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic in 1868. In May of 1868, he declared General Order 11 which instituted the remembrance of those who died defending their country.

"If other eyes grow dull and other hands slack, and other hearts cold in the solemn trust, ours shall keep it well as long as the light and warmth of life remains in us," said Rosenberg.

After the order was read, auxiliary members deposited wreaths. This was followed by a moment of silence. Chaplain Zackerias led "Salute the dead", accompanied by the firing squad, and "Taps" was performed. The Bulldog Marching Band performed "America The Beautiful" and "The Star Spangled Banner and the Flag Folding Ceremony took place.

The "Gettysburg Address" was read by Erin Galindo, the daughter of Dawn Galindo.

"But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate—we cannot hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract," said Galindo.

Chaplin Zackerias introduced the guest speaker, veteran representative Adam Akers, to say a few words in honor of Memorial Day.

"I am humbled to be here and to help remember those who served before us, with us, and will serve," said Akers.

Akers mentioned that veterans had made the greatest sacrifice and that many veterans today are looking to find ways to give back to their communities. The Kiwanis Club of Hampton put up over 200 flags in remembrance to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice around the city.

"As we remember those who have fallen, how do we memorialize them?" Akers said. He shared a news story about the last remaining Medal of Honor winner from Iwo Jima and how when asked what was remembered most, the Medal of Honor winner said that it was those who were with him through it all.

Akers discussed veteran suicide rates and how there are 6,500 per year. Akers shared a story about a veteran that was at his lowest, but was able to receive the help and care he needed.

"It's our duty to stand with veterans," said Akers. "We need to come together, never leaving one alone."