Along with somber respects for the fallen, Clark Lake’s Memorial Day parade celebrated America.  The sun shown brightly, the skies were deep blue, and temperatures definitely summer-like.  Below, please take one minute and enjoy Michigan’s biggest little parade.

 

The parade assembles at the school on North Lake Road, then turns south on Hyde where it is greeted by spectators.  At the Township Park, the parade does an about face and heads north, stopping at the cemetery.  It’s there, a prayer is said, and taps played.

 

The Columbia Central Band, which you saw in the parade, performed the National Anthem at the Clarklake Community Church.  Don’t miss this.  There are surprises awaiting you.

 

In her remarks, Lieutenant Colonel Bernadette Mikowski spoke about the dangers in the world and how our military faces them down. Ensign Christian Reed also spoke. Only a few years ago, he had played taps in Clark Lake’s cemetery as part of the Memorial Day remembrance.  He attended the U.S. Coast Guard Academy and recently received his commission as an officer

Photos, videos, and production by Brett Wietecha and Rick Belcher.  Dronage: BJ Lyons

Below, more of the parade.

 

And the fans in the stands.