The annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens will salute the men and women of the armed forces who have paid the highest price in defense of the United States of America and honor service members killed in the past 13 months. The ceremony takes place on Monday, May 27, 2019 at 10 a.m. at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens, Circle of the Immortals located at 200 East Padonia Road in Timonium.
This year marks the 52nd anniversary of the ceremony held at Dulaney Valley’s Circle of the Immortals. The traditional patriotic observance, which includes music, speeches, a wreath laying and 21-gun salute, will feature a slate of local participants and dignitaries.
In addition to honoring those fighting the battles of today and those who gave their lives in Korea, Vietnam and World War II, the 2019 ceremony will honor:
*Captain John F. Graziano, U.S. Air Force, age 28, died on November 13, 2018; An Elkridge native, Capt. Graziano was an instructor pilot with the 87th Flying Training Squadron. He was killed when his T-38C Talon jet trainer crashed at Laughlin Air Force base in Texas, where he was stationed.
*Senior Chief Petty Officer Shannon M. Kent, U.S. Navy, age 35, died January 16, 2019; A Navy cryptologist Stationed at Fort Meade, Senior Chief Petty Officer Kent was killed in a blast set off by a suicide bomber in northern Syria. This was her fifth combat tour. She is the first female Navy service member killed in the fight against ISIS.
*Staff Sergeant Eddison A. Hermond, Jr.: A special tribute will also be made to honor Maryland National Guardsman, Staff Sergeant Eddison A. Hermond, age 39, who passed away on May 29, 2018 in Ellicott City, Maryland, in a heroic attempt to save lives during the catastrophic flash flood.
In honor of the 69 Marylanders who died on September 11, 2001 and all who have given their lives in service to this country, Maryland’s 9/11 Rolling Memorial will be on site at the Memorial Day ceremony. The bell that is housed on the Memorial will toll as we honor each member of the military lost within the past year.
For more information, visit: www.dulaneyvalley.com.