What a blessing it is to be able to teach our children the meaning of Memorial Day right here in the heart of Barrington. Every year local veterans gather to lead the way in the community’s Memorial Day parade. “Will there be candy, mommy?” That’s the question our children inevitably ask as we briskly walk to catch the opening ceremony. “Not for this parade,” I say. “This one’s about honoring those who served and died to protect our way of life.”
The community quiets to watch the flag raised at the veterans memorial at Cook & Main Streets. Then our veterans, a group that seems smaller every year, lead a short yet meaningful parade of marching bands followed by local boy and girl scouts. Families cheer as the veterans, carrying raised flags, walk west on Main Street and south on Dundee. They turn to lead us up to the monument at Evergreen Cemetery, the beautiful resting place of many service men and women who’ve made great sacrifices on our behalf.
Thank you, Barrington veterans, for your leadership, your continued example and for keeping us connected to the past. Memorial Day is one way to share our thanks. But our appreciation for your service is a constant presence that we feel privileged to pass on to our children.
* Photos by Bob Lee
