Memorial Day 2008

On Monday, May 26th, 2008, a crowd of well over 1000 attended the 105th Annual Memorial Day services at Lone Tree Cemetery. This commemoration, by the Allied Veteran’s Cemetery Committee, is the longest consecutive running Memorial Day Service in the USA. Allen Strutz has been the coordinator of this patriotic event, honoring all those who have died in the service of our nation, for the past 53 years. Mr. Strutz suffered a broken hip in a fall last August and arrangements were made by Tom Gratney, General Manager of the Cemetery, to have Mr. Strutz attend. He was honored for his years of dedicated service by Mayor Mike Sweeney. The Hayward Municipal Band played a 30 minute program in the amphitheater before the formal service began. The inspiring program included General Logan’s Order given by Fred Cox, Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address read by Michael Emerson, the Address of the Day by Col. John McPartland, two selections by the Band and the Battle Hymn of the Republic sung by Lolita Morelli. The audience joined in singing God Bless America. Several Hayward City Council members, County officials and dignitaries from neighboring cities attended and were recognized. After the placing of the Memorial Wreaths, Taps was played and the Colors raised by Boy Scout Troup 722, all were invited to enjoy an excellent barbecue presented by the Lone Tree Cemetery Staff and served by Boy Scout Troup 603.