Despite cold and rainy conditions, Monday’s Memorial Day Parade and Exercise drew participants from across the community, as described in “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS”. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” The band participated in the observance. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Among those present were veterans of various ages, including both elderly men and younger women. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” A Gold Star Mother whose son died in 2008 addressed attendees, noting that such gatherings aid in her healing process.
“BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Schoolchildren took time away from their day off to support the veterans and deliver special readings. However, a concern emerged regarding representation: “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” why did so few elected officials attend? “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” While attendance at Memorial Day is voluntary—much like a church collection—those present knew who showed up. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” The actual count revealed “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” six city councillors and three School Committee members in attendance.
“BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” In other communities, municipal elected officials typically fill the ranks of any parade with their presence. This year’s Girl Scout Parade, by contrast, showed sparse political representation—to put it mildly. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Ironically, Memorial Day itself drew a respectable turnout by historical standards. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Elected officials in this city are expected to lead by example, standing at events like these to honor those who traveled overseas to protect us and made the ultimate sacrifice.
“BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” The names inscribed on the Memorials at City Hall, which elected officials pass regularly, belonged to real Chelsea residents. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Many are old and largely forgotten. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Yet a significant number of younger veterans now attend Memorial Day observances. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Diana Ramirez, a younger Spanish-speaking woman, lost her son when he was only 22—nine years ago, which is not distant history, and people still remember him. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” Nelson Rodriguez Ramirez and the other men and women memorialized around City Hall could have done little more than give their lives. “BodyTextBROADSHEETPAPERS” The moment has arrived for everyone, especially elected officials, to participate in such events.