Medina marks Memorial Day with big parade, ceremony

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – The flags are raised at State Street Park in Medina for a Memorial Day ceremony that started at noon. The flags were raised while the national anthem was played by the Medina Marching Band.

The ceremony is held by the World War I cannon at State Street Park.

The crowd stood at attention while the anthem was played.

The parade procession heads down East Center Street where American flags and Hometown Hero banners lined the street.

The Honor Guard provided a dignified presence at the ceremony and also did a gun salute.

Jim Freas served as the emcee of the service in Medina. The names of Medina veterans who have passed since last Memorial Day were read during the service.

Bill Morgan, a member of the American Legion and VFW, marched with a group of veterans in the parade, which started at the Olde Pickle Factory on Park Avenue and went to State Street Park.

Carmen Stalker, drum major or the Medina Marching Band, leads the group down East Center Street.

The Medina Marching Band played patriotic music during the procession.

The marching band passes by the VFW on East Center Street.

The Medina Lions Club celebrated scholarship winners, Lilah Class (left) and Mackenzie Sword.

Jarred Saj carries the American flag in the parade.

Medina’s new Mini Mustang Band made its debut during the parade. The band includes students in grades 5, 6 and is co-led by teachers, Kyla Leno-Denise and Andrea Busch (in front behind banner).

Dave Sevenski marched with the Knights of Columbus and passed out treats along the route.

A big contingent from Medina youth sports teams marched down Main Street.

Rollin Hellner, owner of The Walsh, drove a vintage fire truck in the parade.