The Borough of Rumson honored those who gave their lives on Monday, May 30, 2022 with its annual Memorial Day Ceremony.
This year marked the return of the Memorial Day Parade, as well as the acceptance of a special red poppy wreath, one of 100 of its kind. Presented to Mayor Joseph K. Hemphill and Borough Council by The United War Veterans Council President and Executive and the 2022 keynote speaker, Mark Otto, the wreath began its journey in counties across England. Ceremonies took place before they traveled, mostly by rail, with escorts to the coast at South Hampton, England. The wreaths continued their journey by sailing across the Atlantic on board the historic Queen Mary 2 and they ended up being a part of Memorial Day Ceremonies across all 50 states here in the U.S.
The red poppy flower has been a symbol of remembrance in honor of fallen service members since WWI. Its roots can traced back to a poem that was written about a battle that took place on Flanders Fields, where the poppies grow along the border of France and Belgium.
“The Borough is honored to receive this incredible gift,” Mayor Hemphill said. "We will be sure to cherish the red poppy wreath as a fundamental piece of The Borough's rich history."
The wreath will live on within The Borough of Rumson as The Borough will look to preserve the wreath and add it to the George H. Moss History Room for members of the public to visit and enjoy.
A big thank you to Mr. Otto, The United War Veterans Council, and everyone who made the 2022 Memorial Day event an incredible day of honoring and remembrance for our veterans and their families.