Memorial Day Ceremony
Shelby Township is preparing for its annual Memorial Day Ceremony, scheduled to take place at 1:30 p.m. on May 26 at the Shelby Township Veterans Memorial at 52700 Van Dyke Ave.
The event, which aims to honor and remember the sacrifices of the nation’s veterans, promises to be a solemn and meaningful occasion.
This year’s ceremony will commence with a warm welcome from Shelby Township Supervisor Rick Stathakis, who expressed the township’s gratitude towards those who have served their country.
“Memorial Day is a time for us to come together as a community and pay tribute to the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our nation,” Stathakis said. “It is an honor to stand alongside our veterans and their families as we remember their sacrifice and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Phil Randazzo, Shelby Township Veterans Event Coordinator and distinguished Vietnam Combat Veteran will deliver remarks at the ceremony. Randazzo, a recipient of two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars for Valor and the 2020 Macomb County Veteran of the Year brings a wealth of experience and reverence to the event.
“Memorial Day holds a special place in our hearts as we remember the brave souls who have given everything for our freedom,” said Randazzo. “Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and it’s our duty to honor their memory and ensure that their legacy lives on.”
The ceremony will also feature poignant elements, such as the placement of the memorial wreath and musical tributes. The U.S. National Anthem will be performed by Pete Powinski and Ken Kazmierski, setting a patriotic tone for the proceedings. The Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Boy Scout Troop #156 and Assistant Scoutmaster Raymond Jahn of Trail Life USA Troop MI 1776, alongside Pastor Jason Jackson of Brookside Missionary Baptist Church.
Dr. Philip Krist of Lakeside Assembly of God will deliver the invocation, offering prayers for remembrance. Honored Speaker Judge Stephen Siewarski will share reflections on the significance of Memorial Day and the enduring legacy of those who have served.
Patriotic songs from the Lakeside Assembly of God Church Choir will fill the air, further honoring the spirit of the occasion. The ceremony will conclude with solemn tributes, including a 21-gun Salute from the Shelby Township Police Department Honor Guard and the haunting melody of Taps performed by Tim Waage. A siren salute from the Shelby Township Fire Department and Police Department will be a final tribute to fallen heroes.
As communities nationwide gather to observe Memorial Day, Shelby Township's ceremony stands as a testament to the enduring gratitude and respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend freedom.
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