Wakefield’s Memorial Day ceremony is coming up

The public is invited to attend Wakefield’s Remembrance Day ceremony on Monday 27 May 2024 at 1pm. This outdoor ceremony takes place on the Upper Common in front of the Second World War Memorial.

Our keynote speaker is Ms. Kristen F. Bauer, former State Department diplomat. Her experience on “Vietnam Today” recognizes the sacrifices made by the fallen and their families, offering hope for peace in the future. Ms. Bauer served as Deputy Chief of Mission (Deputy Ambassador) at the U.S. Embassy in the Republic of the Union of Burma from 2015 to 2017. Ms. Bauer also served as Deputy Chief of Mission in Jakarta, Indonesia and Consul General. in Surabaya, Indonesia. She previously served as Counselor for Political and Economic Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Oslo, Norway, and Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane, Laos. She has held diplomatic posts in the US missions in Pretoria, South Africa; Hanoi, Vietnam; London, United Kingdom; and Bangkok, Thailand.

Members of the community will read the 161 names of Wakefield’s fallen honored by the “Peace Bell” presented by the Wakefield Fire Department. Wakefield Memorial High School share their talents at the ceremony. Nadia Collins sings “National Anthem”. Following the Twenty-One Gun Salute, clarinetists Lilah Hatheway and Caroline Dill will perform “Taps.”

Our color guard is provided by Boy Scout Troop 701. The Boy Scouts of Wakefield will lay a wreath at the memorial. Chaplains Robert Leroe, LTC USA (Ret) and Rev. Brett Johnson of Emmanuel Episcopal Church give the invocation and benediction, respectively.

Questions about these events can be directed to the Veterans Advisory Board at [email protected]. Community members wishing to learn more about veterans benefits programs or services can call Wakefield Veterans Services Officer David Mangan at 781-246-6377.

Kristen F. Bauer will deliver the ceremony’s keynote address.

The Ceremonial Battery (M105 Howitzer) of the 101st Field Artillery will provide an official 21-gun salute.

This press release was produced by the City of Wakefield. The opinions expressed here are those of the author.