My family is a family of proud Americans. My grandmother’s birthday is on the Fourth of July. Both of my grandfathers served in World War II. My father served in the Army, and my uncle served in the Vietnam War, 18 Military Police Brigade, Company C, 716 Military Police Battalion, private first Class. We believe in service. This Memorial Day, I was so proud to walk in my first Memorial Day parades as a public official, to honor all those who have served our country and continue to heed the call of duty every day. As I walked to the start of the parade on the Green in Tariffville, the idyllic setting was truly breathtaking. Walking with my fellow members of the Board of Selectmen to the St. Bernard’s Cemetary to honor those who have given the ulitmate sacrifice for our country, I was struck by an overwhelming sense of community. As the crowd of all ages assembled, the willingness to honor our service men and women was palpable. My second parade was down Hopmeadow Street to a memorial assembly at Eno Hall. Led by the fine members of Simsbury’s Police Department, we walked, and waved and briefly said hello to our friends who lined the route. Flanked by members of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Simsbury Volunteer Fire Department, it was truly impossible to ignore the way in which this community lives. With pride. With respect for our history. With commitment to service. My thanks to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion for organizing the amazing celebrations, and special thanks to Master of Ceremonioes Ray Jennings. At Eno Hall, Linda Schwartz, Commissioner from the Department of Veterans Affairs spoke of the ultimate sacrifice of life. She encouraged getting involved in one’s community, getting out to vote and finally, with a question of which I made a mental note. She asked, and I paraphrase, “Am I living my life in the way which honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for my freedoms?” I know I was inspired to do my best to ensure I could answer, “yes!” to that question. I feel blessed to call Simsbury my home. Shannon Knall Simsbury Board of Selectmen
