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Memorial Day Observance In Riverbank
wreath RIV
Assemblyman Heath Flora, left, positions the memorial wreath at the wall as Congressman Josh Harder looks on at the Monday, May 31 Memorial Day ceremony in Riverbank. Ric McGinnis/The News

Once again, the City of Riverbank hosted a virtual version of its Memorial Day Celebration on Monday, May 31. It took place at the Community Center.

Hosted by Mayor Richard D. O’Brien, the ceremony was streamed to the public both on Facebook and on Instagram, so attendance was limited by continuing COVID concerns. It was the second year event attendance was restricted.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 1100 and Cub Scout Pack 10 provided a Parade of Colors to start the event, also leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The National Anthem was provided by Wayne Hill.

O’Brien spoke of the impact these losses have had on the families who have lost loved ones in the service.

Keynote speakers were Heath Flora, Assembly Member representing the 12th District; and Josh Harder, U.S. Representative for the 10th District. Their talks both touched a bit, as did O’Brien’s, also on how Vietnam veterans were despised by much of the public when they returned from their service.

After, the pair laid a wreath at the Memorial Wall, while Taps was sounded by trumpeter Hill.

A bagpiper in full kilt, George Harerow, performed Amazing Grace.

Reverend Charles Neal presented the Benediction, as he had the Invocation.

Concluding the ceremony, the flag was raised to full staff and God Bless America was performed by Hill.

The ceremony lasted from 11:30 a.m. to noon.