May 27th Lutherville-Timonium -
On an unusually pleasant day at the end of May, members of Our Lady of Victory, Assembly 3389, Father O'Neill Council 4011, and other Knights of Columbus guests, helped to honor the fallen veterans at the 52nd Annual Memorial Day celebration at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.
The ceremony, held at the Circle of Immortals, featured local participants and dignitaries, both from the Towson area, but also the state as well. The traditional patriotic observance included music, provided by the 229nd Maryland Army National Guard Band, speeches, wreath laying, and capped off with a 21-gun salute.
As with last year, the members of Our Lady of Victory's color guard helped to present the colors in the open ceremonies, and lead the crowd in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
On top of honoring all veterans who gave their lives in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, the event honored three Maryland-ers who gave their life in the defense of the nation.
*Captain John F. Graziano, U.S. Air Force, age 28, died on November 13, 2018; An Elkridge native, Capt. Graziano was an instructor pilot with the 87th Flying Training Squadron. He was killed when his T-38C Talon jet trainer crashed at Laughlin Air Force base in Texas, where he was stationed.
*Senior Chief Petty Officer Shannon M. Kent, U.S. Navy, age 35, died January 16, 2019; A Navy cryptologist Stationed at Fort Meade, Senior Chief Petty Officer Kent was killed in a blast set off by a suicide bomber in northern Syria. This was her fifth combat tour. She is the first female Navy service member killed in the fight against ISIS.
*Staff Sergeant Eddison A. Hermond, Jr.: A special tribute will also be made to honor Maryland National Guardsman, Staff Sergeant Eddison A. Hermond, age 39, who passed away on May 29, 2018 in Ellicott City, Maryland, in a heroic attempt to save lives during the catastrophic flash flood.
(Citations from: Baltimore Times)
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