OCEAN CITY, Md. - Ocean City held its first-ever Memorial Day ceremony Sunday, honoring the men and women who gave their lives in service to the country with music, military displays, and solemn tributes.
Among the day’s highlights were a wreath-laying ceremony representing all branches of the U.S. military, a military vehicle display, and a performance by the 229th Maryland Army National Guard Band.
Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan, who spoke at the event, reflected on the impact the ceremony had on families and children in attendance. “He was saluting the whole time that the band was playing the military song,” Meehan said, recalling one young boy. “And I just thought that was classic.”
Among the day’s highlights were a wreath-laying ceremony representing all branches of the U.S. military.
Visitors like Kristin Buffington, vacationing with her family, said attending the ceremony was especially meaningful. “All in all, everything is great,” Buffington said. “It’s very important because my dad was in the Army for 26 years. Gives everybody a chance to learn about our military’s history.”
Meehan emphasized that Memorial Day is about more than just the start of summer. “It’s important we don’t forget, and we remember to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country so we can continue to enjoy Memorial Day weekend with our family and friends,” he said.
The ceremony marked the first time Ocean City formally held a Memorial Day tribute of this kind. Meehan said the town plans to make it an annual tradition.