Hastings Residents Show True Spirit of Remembrance

What does Memorial Day mean to you? We asked Hastings' residents and officials.  Here's how they responded:

"Memorial day is not only a day about pool openings and barbecues; we must also remember the very essence of our freedom and those who gave their lives so that we could have it."-Chris Gaulin, recent West Point graduate, in his speech following the parade

"Memorial Day is abot honoring those who have died in combat before and knowing [Chris] could one day give his life...and knowing that people would come out for him if it ever happened."-Judy Parton, Chris Gaulfin's mother. 

"Memorial Day means everything to me.  I was a teenager during WWII.  I had a brother in Korea, two sons in Vietnam.  I'm still in touch with some of my classmates because we bonded over living during wartime."-Phyllis Richter.

"My husband's family has lived in Hastings for over 100 years, and he was the MC of this parade for 28 years.  His brother was captured during the Battle of the Bulge, and my husband served in East Africa. This is a sacred day of remembrance."- Mary Martin

"For me it is two-fold.  As a firefighter reminded of the soldiers in the military who gave their lives for the country, but also of the members of my department who gave their lives for the safety of people here, in Hastings."- Fire Chief Ron Gagliardi

"I'm reminded that only 10% of WWII vets are still alive.  I never had to worry about having to send my sons to war, and that makes me even more grateful to those who have served and still serve."-Deputy Village Manager Susan Maggiotto.

"Today is a day of remembrance of troops of all branches of service and those who are still under fire. It reminds me of guys I served with--some are still around. Some are not. It is a very important day for me."-Bob Russak, Hastings Fire Department

Freedom. I think about the freedom I have now and the members of my family who served in wars to give us what we have today."-Kathy Gunther.

"I think of memories, sad memories. But it is even more sad to me that so many people don't come and observe this important day."-Rosemarie Smith

"It's about the supreme sacrifices that all veterans had to make, but really about those who died, not the ones who are here."- Bob Hoffarth