HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — The route for Holland’s Memorial Day parade was crowded with people, many waving flags, despite blistering heat. Many other veterans stood along the parade route, dressed in their uniforms. (Photo gallery.)
Holland Mayor Nancy DeBoer recalled knowing U.S. Marine Gunnery Sgt. Daniel Price, who attended school with her daughter and was killed in Afghanistan on July 29, 2012. She noted that Monday’s ceremony had roots in the Civil War.
She said Holland’s first observance of Memorial Day included two sons of this city’s founder, the Rev. Albertus Van Raalte, one of whom had lost an arm in the Civil War.
Aine O’Connor, one of three Hope College students who spent months researching Holland’s connection to World War I, shared some of her research on the 24 Holland natives who went to war and never returned, including Willard G. Leenhouts — Holland’s American Legion Post 6 now bears his name.
While the American Legion’s band played music associated with each branch of the U.S. military service, veterans stood to represent their branch while others present applauded.
In his benediction, the Rev. Donald Jansen reminded all present to work and pray for peace. (Audio of full program.)
