Mount Kisco folks braved unseasonably chilly weather to commemorate Memorial Day on Saturday, May 30, honoring and mourning U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the armed forces.
Gathered in front of the village's War Veterans Memorial, the large crowd was welcomed by Joan Stewart, a trustee of the local historical society, and John Hagan, commander of the American Legion’s Moses Taylor Jr. Post 136.
The invocation was given by the Rev. Steven E. Clark of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Parish.
"The Star-Spangled Banner" and "God Bless America" were sung by Gina Bergamini.
Mayor J. Michael Cindrich introduced local elected officials.
After marching down Main Street with a contingent of firefighters, the Mount Kisco Fire Department Ancient Fife & Drum Corps played a selection of patriotic music.
Jane Pieragostini of the Chamber of Commerce introduced the two winners of this year’s Memorial Day essay contest.
Fifth-graders Issa Waoklet of Mount Kisco Elementary School and Katherine Kelly of West Patent Elementary School each earned a $100 award for their “outstanding work,” Pieragostini said.
Giving the keynote address was Maj. Kathi Johannessen of the Army Reserve. Other speakers were John Hagan and Pam Woodward, president of the American Legion’s Ladies Auxiliary.
This year there were not just one Miss Poppy, but two: Wren and Margeaux Angel. The sisters wore crowns of bright red poppies to symbolize remembrance for the soldiers who gave their all to this country.
Stewart and Pieragostini guided the placement of wreaths and flowers at the monument.
(Unfortunately, the playing of Taps had to be omitted because of a bugle malfunction.)
Clark gave the benediction.
Afterward, participants headed over to the American Legion for a barbecue celebrating the organization’s 100th anniversary in Mount Kisco.
To see the whole ceremony, visit: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1493187985645148
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