Gettysburg marked its 157th Memorial Day with a poignant blend of reverence and celebration yesterday. Residents and visitors alike gathered to honor the memory of fallen soldiers and reflect on the town’s significant military history.
The Memorial Day events kicked off with the annual parade, a stirring spectacle of community spirit and military vehicles. Leading the procession were this year’s Honorary Grand Marshals, graduates of Adams County high schools Larry and Kathy Altoff. Larry served in Vietnam and Kathy is a former Navy Depot employee.

As the parade concluded, the crowd transitioned to the Gettysburg National Cemetery, the site of the day’s main observance. The ceremonial area was set against the backdrop of the iconic rostrum .
Gettysburg Joint Veterans Memorial Day Commission Chair Barry C. Decker opened the ceremony with the National Moment of Remembrance. His words, heavy with the weight of history, reminded those present of the sacrifices made by so many for the freedoms enjoyed today.
A particularly touching moment was the strewing of flowers by children from the Gettysburg Area School District, a tradition that connects the younger generation with their nation’s storied past. The Gettysburg High School band performed the “National Anthem” and “Armed Forces Medley,” their music echoing solemnly through the hallowed grounds.
The keynote address was delivered by Major General David C. Hill, the 53rd Commandant of the U.S. Army War College. Major General Hill, a decorated veteran with significant operational experiences including in Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, spoke eloquently about the importance of remembrance and the ongoing responsibilities of service members and civilians alike.
An artillery salute by the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, and the solemn tradition of a twenty-one gun salute followed. The playing of “Taps” by local trumpeter Mitch Mummert provided a moving and fitting tribute to the fallen.
Gettysburg Mayor Rita Frealing served as Master of Ceremonies, James Hayney recited the Gettysburg Address, Doug Hill sang the National Anthem, and State Representative Dan Moul read the names during the presentation of wreaths.
The ceremony concluded with a closing prayer by Rev. Dale E. Williams, leaving a lasting impression of solemnity and national pride on all who attended. Gettysburg’s 157th Memorial Day observance was not just a day of remembrance but a reaffirmation of the town’s deep historical roots and its ongoing commitment to honoring its past.
Participating organization in the day’s event included American Legion Post 202 (Commander Kenneth Wetzel), Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 15 (Commander Gary Ryan), Marine Corps League Battlefield Detachment 705 (Commandant Diana Henry), Gettysburg Camp 112, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (Commander Dr. Stephen Law), and Adams County Veteran Affairs (Stan Clark).
The members of the Gettysburg Joint Veterans Memorial Day Commission are Barry C. Decker, Chairman, William Hewitt, Vice Chairman / Treasurer, Gail Serfass, Parade Marshal / Secretary, and Eleanor Cringire, Recorder