Community comes together to celebrate Memorial Day, remember fallen loved ones

BERLIN, Md. – The streets were packed at the annual Berlin Memorial Day parade, Monday.

Some were celebrating their own service, like Barry Brittingham Sr.

“I served my country in 1974.”

While others, like Paula Pinkett, celebrated the sacrifices of family members.

“I have uncles, an aunt and my husband, all of them were military honorees, so I am representing them today because I love them all.”

For a day, no one was defined by their background or political beliefs.
Everyone’s focus was on recognizing the ultimate sacrifice made by fellow neighbors in the community.

Dr. Roxie Dennis said the beauty of Memorial Day is that sense of unity.

“In our world, in the times that we’re living in, things are just estranged,” said Dr. Dennis, “We want people to know that we can come together– whether it be Republican or Democrat– on one common ground, because it’s all different types of people out here today.”

But it’s not just about celebrations. Brittingham said it’s also a time to bring awareness to some of the issues that veterans face.

“We have a lot of family, friends, neighbors that have lost their life, didn’t come back. We have some that are here but are still not here mentally. We have disabled veterans,” said Brittingham.

He added, it’s not just today, but every day, that you can learn about the dedication of those who’ve served their country.

“Study the history; the history makes the present,” said Brittingham. Many men and women served their country, not for fun, but from the heart.”