A wreath laying ceremony was held on Memorial Day morning at the Allingtown Green.
The ceremony, organized by the Allingtown Volunteer Fire Association commemorated the lives of Allingtown veterans that were killed during war. It also honors the lives of all deceased Allingtown firefighters.
Firefighter Steven R. Mullins served as Master of Ceremonies. The rites began with a marching procession from the Admiral Street Headquarters It was lead by the Surfside Veterans Association and Boy Scout Troop #821 carrying a large American Flag. The procession also included career and volunteer firefighters and City and State officials. The Scouts hoisted the flag up the pole as retired West Shore Fire Department Lieutenant Kevin McKeon played Call to Colors. The flag was then lowered to half staff.
Andrew Vallerio, a member of the Surfside Veterans Association laid a wreath at the war memorial, assisted by Mullins. Lieutenant Sam Manuel laid a wreath firefighter monument.
McKeon played taps following the wreath-layings. Devotions were delivered by Father Bruce R. Bellmore of the Church of the Resurrection in Ansonia. He is a past Captain of Engine Company #1 in the Center District. Remarks were delivered by Mayor Dorinda A. Borer and City of West Haven Allingtown Fire Chief Michael Terenzio. Mullins, who has been part of the ceremony since his childhood noted that Borer is the first sitting Mayor to attend the function.
Others in attendance were, State Rep. Trenee’ McGee (D-116), City Councilman Edward “Mackie” McMillian (D-5), Fire Commissioner Fred Brown, City of West Haven Fire Department Allingtown Deputy Chief Michael Esposito and Volunteer Chief and Center District Commissioner John Carew.
I had to work that day. Being born & raised in Allingtown, I would have loved to have attended this ceremony.