Memorializing veterans where it all began

The village of Waterloo, N.Y., appears similar to other small towns on Memorial Day Weekend.

Residents display large, medium and small American flags. Banners proclaim freedom. A community sense of patriotism wafts through the air.

But for Waterloo and it’s roughly 5,000 residents, it’s different.

After all this is the birthplace of Memorial Day.

W. Michael Bowen, a member of American Legion Post 465 and a National Executive Committeeman, is a native of Waterloo. He recalls viewing the Memorial Day parade and other events as a child.

“It means a lot to me,” he said. “The patriotism of this village is incomparable. Many people are patriotic. But Waterloo takes it to heart as they have for 156 years. And I have been blessed to be a part of many of those ceremonies throughout the years. It is a joy and honor to be here.”

On May 5, 1866, the village was decorated with flags at half staff, draped with evergreens and mourning black. Veterans, civic organizations and residents paid tribute to the Civil War fallen at the three village cemeteries. The commemorations continued each year. On March 7, 1966, New York Gov. Nelson A. Rockefeller officially recognized Waterloo as the birthplace of Memorial Day. Now the community hosts a weekend-long “Commemoration and Celebration” during which time American Legion Post 435 plays an active role.

On Memorial Day, Post 435 members conducted ceremonies at three cemeteries in town. At each one, a brief speech recalling the sacrifices made was followed by a ceremonial salute by the honor guard and the playing of taps. American Legion post 435 member and Rider Carol Langan laid a wreath at one ceremony.

Legion Riders were among more than 100 motorcyclists who conducted a brief ride after the graveside remembrances. Later in the day, following a community parade, a Purple Heart Memorial Wall was dedicated.

Larry Bowen, Michael’s brother, is among more than 100 veterans with ties to Waterloo who is listed on the memorial. The retired Navy veteran received a Purple Heart after being wounded on the USS Liberty.

“It’s a big deal for Waterloo,” said Larry Bowen, a native who lives in Maryland but is a member of Post 435. “Being back here for Memorial Day really touches me because I lost 34 of my shipmates. Coming back here to honor all of our fallen servicemembers means a lot. It means a lot to be honored.”

Department of New York Commander Frank LaMarsh spoke at the memorial dedication.

“Today is a very somber day not only for celebrating the memories of the heroes who have given their all to make our way of life possible but because of the senseless killings in Buffalo and Texas,” he said. “It is extremely fitting that we gather today in Waterloo, N.Y., the birthplace of Memorial Day to dedicate a wall of honor memorializing those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those who continue to suffer the effects of wounds they suffered in combat.”

LaMarsh’s theme as commander is “Honoring our heroes through service,” which is fitting every day but especially on Memorial Day.

“It’s an honor to represent The American Legion at the birthplace of Memorial Day,” said LaMarsh, a member of Post 1365 on Staten Island. “Sadly, far too many people think of this as a holiday weekend, the start of summer, instead of remembering the almost 700,000 men and women who died in defense our way of life and nation. It’s sad to think that so many people don’t recognize the true meaning of the holiday. Part of it is that we have failed to educate our children about it. Places like Waterloo, N.Y., and my hometown do our best to remember our fallen heroes. Not just on Memorial Day but throughout the year.”

For those who attended the weekend-long celebration, Mike Bowen hopes they hold on to the memories and what they learned about Memorial Day.

“I want them to remember that this day — Memorial Day, May 30 — is a day to remember those who have lost their lives and will not come back, they lost everything you and I enjoy today. If it wasn’t for them, you and I wouldn’t be here. They need to know they owe a great deal of respect and gratitude to the military men and women who helped in all wars.”

Even as visitors depart the annual celebration, the pride remains for community residents like Bowen. “I’ve got goosebumps and it means a lot to me,” he said. “It is a lot of pride. I know where I started. My relatives came over on the Mayflower. From that I have grown into the individual that I am, thanks to The American Legion, and thanks to friends and family. I’m very blessed and proud to be from Waterloo, N.Y.”