Middletown commemorates Memorial Day with poignant ceremony

In a stirring display of remembrance, the Town of Middletown held a Memorial Day ceremony at the local veterans memorial on May 29, 2023, bringing together over 200 people to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom.

Among the attendees were representatives from the Sons of the American Revolution James Wood II Chapter, a key group known for its dedication to preserving the memories of those who fought for independence during the Revolutionary War.

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the day was the powerful address delivered by the guest speaker, Ed Tooma, a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant. Tooma, whose distinguished 22-year active-duty career culminated in 1985, held a myriad of assignments within the American Forces Radio & Television Network in Germany, the Army Information Radio Service in Washington, D.C., and the American Forces Korea Network in Seoul, Korea. These experiences evidently equipped him with a uniquely informed perspective on military service and sacrifice.

Following his military retirement, Tooma transitioned to the staff of the United States Information Agency – Voice of America, headquartered in Washington, D.C., further honing his storytelling prowess.

Tooma’s eloquence and firsthand experiences captured the audience’s attention, encapsulating the essence of the day while also echoing the broader message of Memorial Day – remembering, honoring, and expressing gratitude for the sacrifices made by our fallen soldiers.

As the ceremony concluded, the sense of unity and respect was palpable, a testament to the power of community gatherings and the enduring spirit of remembrance. The Middletown Memorial Day ceremony serves as a poignant reminder that freedom isn’t free, and it’s our collective responsibility to honor and remember those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.