Exeter Township celebrated Memorial Day with their 32nd annual parade, and memorial service hosted by American Legion Post 934. The parade began at Exeter Senior High School at 9 a.m. and continued through the streets, lined with patriotic residents, ending at Forest Hills Memorial Park.
Among those marching in the parade was the Exeter Senior High School Marching Band, led by Michquelena Potlunas, music department chairperson, Exeter police, Boy and Girl Scout troops, local volunteer fire and ambulance companies, Exeter Library, and State Senator Judy Schwank.
Music, floats, antique cars, veterans, local volunteers and organizations marched through Exeter. Kids on the sidelines scrambled to pick up the candy thrown their way.
‘The parade is a celebration of appreciation for the people who serve our community and country every day,’ parade chairman Jesse Ritz said. ‘The service is the solemn part, in remembrance of all the servicemen and women who have lost their lives in military service.’ Dale Derr, Director of Berks County Office for Veterans Affairs, gave a keynote address at Forest Hills Memorial Park remembering those who have served and are serving our country.
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jarett M. Yoder, of Mohnton, was one remembered this Memorial Day. Yoder served in the National Guard and was killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan April 9. Yoder is buried at Forest Hills Memorial Park.
Exeter High School student James Damore performed ‘America the Beautiful’ and Rev. Wendy Orzolek of NorthStar United Methodist Church delivered the benediction.
