The gloomy skies reflected the somberness of the afternoon's Memorial Day ceremonies. Townsfolk gathered on Franklin's Common to pay tribute and honor to all who gave the ultimate sacrifice - their lives. Franklin's Veterans Memorial Walkway established in 2018, eulogizes the 45 Franklin soldiers with granite columns in honor and rememberance of their mortal service. They sacrificed their lives for America to give us the freedoms we enjoy today.

Shortly after the Civil War ended in 1868, the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) established "Decoration Day" as a time for our nation to adorn the graves of those mortally wounded with flowers, prayers, and respect. After WWII, Decoration Day was commonly called Memorial Day although the name wasn't officially changed and made a federal holiday until 1971.

The skies were dark, the mood was somber and the honorable rituals of Memorial Day galvanized all who gathered. Master of Ceremonies, Franklin's Veterans' Service Officer Shannon Nesbitt smoothly directed the day's events. The Parade Committee of 14 had worked dilligently all year to bring Memorial Day activities to fruition.

The VFW Post 3402 and American Legion Post 75, along with their posse of veterans, were a pivatol part of the day exemplifing respect and honor for soldiers who gave their lives for us. Both Commanders spoke on the importance of the day.

Franklin's Scouting Troops were another integral part of Memorial Day observances. Their contributions throughout the day were conducted with reverence and pride.

The Girl Scout Troop placed wreaths they handmade upon the war monuments located at the beginning of the Veterans Memorial Walkway. They also placed wreaths at St. Mary's and Union Street cemetaries and at Dean College's Memorial.

The Boy Scouts raised the Armed Forces Flags for all branches of the military. The Army, Navy, and Marine Corps were established in 1775, the Coast Guard in 1790, the Air Force in 1947, and the Space Force in 2019.

The Scouts also helped replace flags on the graves of soldiers buried in Franklin's cemeteries.

The recognition of every Franklin Veteran who left the earth this year was an emotional and poignant experience. VFW Post 3402 Commander Ernest Carruthers along with member Herman Anderson, a retired Army Command Sergeant Major, fervently recognized the 48 Franklin Honorables with the ringing of a bell and hand salute for their service to our Country.

At 97 years young, Grand Marshal and Korean War Veteran Victor Pisini gave a moving and profound speech on the meaning of Memorial Day. He stated that he "thanks God for bringing him home." After his speech there was a resounding clap of appreciation, not once but twice. Victor owns Pisini Shoe Shop in the heart of Franklin and remarked that he still enjoys working at the store he established 74 years ago. A homegrown townie, he is truly a man of honor and Franklinites love him.

The Parade Committee extends their gratitude "to all Veterans, officials, organizations, and individuals who participated in our Memorial Day events. To the Franklin Garden Club for beautifying the Town Common, to Allegra Printing for providing our Parade Banner, to South Coast Entertainment for providing sound, and to Franklin TV for coordinating comprehensive coverage." The event is now available for viewing on Franklin TV.