Morning Services Start North Reading's Memorial Day Observances

Services mark the beginning of North Reading's tribute to veterans on Memorial Day.

Monday at 7 a.m. at the Riverside Cemetery, Captain William McDonnell and the North Reading Minit and Militia, along with Scout Master Andrew Ressler and Boy Scout Troop 750 and buglers, will begin ceremonies with opening remarks, prayer, and a roll of honor by Sgt. Geoffrey Bemiss. There will be a firing of three volleys led by Captain McDonnell and taps will be played by Laura Wagnert and Hugo Wiberg IV.

Following Riverside services, Harmony Vale Cemetery services will be held at 7:45, at the Ipswich River Park Blue Star Memorial at 8:30, and Park Street Cemetery at 8:45.

The parade, coordinated by Richard Stratton Sr., will leave the Common at 10 a.m. The parade returns to the Common where the Memorial Day ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. Reverend Dr. Richard A. Hughes will give the invocation. The North Reading High School Band will play the National Anthem and God Bless America, and there will be many other speakers.

Photo of the tribute to veterans on the Boston Common by Bob Holmes