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Date: 6/6/2023
HOLYOKE — The War Memorial Building was filled with Holyokers gathered to honor those who have fallen in the city’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony.
Before ceremonies began, city officials, veterans and residents alike were invited to participate in the “Can You Do 22?” push-up challenge. The challenge was created to bring awareness to the mental health struggles of veterans. The number comes from the statistic that 22 veterans are lost to suicide every day.
When ceremonies began, different city officials spoke alongside members from Holyoke Veterans’ Services about the importance of the holiday and to reflect on those who served. Police Captain Matthew Moriarty served as emcee of the event.
“We’re here to remember those who sacrificed everything to offer our freedom. So for those families who have lost someone, we recognize you as well and say thank you for your sacrifice,” City Council President Todd McGee said. “Take a moment to remember our veterans who sacrificed for us, say a prayer for them and remember them.”
McGee, who participated in the 22-push-up challenge, jokingly made note during his time on stage that Mayor Joshua Garcia had shown up “fashionably late” and Councilor Peter Tallman did 22 extra push-ups in his absence.
When going up to speak next, Garcia started off by acknowledging the call out and said, “I gotta settle the score here and do my 22 push-ups.”
McGee joined the mayor and with the encouragement of the crowd in attendance the two city officials pumped out 22 push-ups on stage.
Garcia thanked the city’s Veterans Department for their work putting on the annual ceremony and for their efforts in bringing in the challenge to help raise awareness. He also reiterated the importance of reflecting and remembering those who served.
“This morning’s opening exercise was intended to remind us that the sacrifice continues to this day, that for many veterans there is no peace, no armistice, no truce,” Garcia said. “It’s fitting that we continue to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and let us also resolve to support the efforts of the individuals and agencies that bring solace to the former service men and women for whom the battle rages on.”
State Rep. Patricia Duffy spoke during the ceremony as well and noted as the city’s representative “I’m your biggest champion” when it comes to getting support or resources needed for local veterans.
“I’m always so filled with gratitude on a day like this and we need to remember our veterans and their families 365 days a year, but I so appreciate you having this moment where we can come together as a community,” Duffy said.
Following all speakers was a performance from the Holyoke High School Madrigal Choir.