Middlefield Marks "Solemn Day" of Remembrance (Photos & Video)

The heavy rain held off long enough Monday morning for a small crowd to gather at Middlefield's Memorial Day Ceremony.

John Capega Jr., Commander of VFW Post 10362 (Middlefield/Rockfall), led the ceremony on the town's green, which included a wreath laying at the Veterans' Memorial.

"They answered the call of duty, served so far from home and family in a hostile land. They did everything they were asked to do and more. They did it with great courage, in the face of danger and sacrifice. They were noble warriors and they deserve the nation's respect, recognition and gratitude," Capega said of his fellow veterans, including several local servicemen who lost their lives during war.

Rev. Dale Azevedo led a prayer and asked those gathered at the ceremony not to forget the men and women currently defending our freedom overseas.

"Hold them in our hearts and our in prayers as we go through this day, that would be a blessing to them," he announced.

A digital version of Taps was played by veteran Bob Malcolm (see video).

"It's not the first day of summer. It's not picnic day. It's a solemn day," Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw told the crowd.

Following the service, wreath laying ceremonies were held at the Firefighters Memorial, Middlefield Cemetery and Old North Burial Ground.