For the third year, Bridgeport Cemetery will host a Memorial Day observance. Taking place Monday, May 27, the event will be emceed by Brad Ford and feature special music and a military presence.

 

Lending her vocal talent to the event is Emma Davisson, a Bridgeport High School freshman. Davisson sang last year and said she is pleased and honored to return to sing at this year’s event.

 

Small American flags will be distributed at the gate. Beginning at 12 noon, refreshments – such as hotdogs, cake and patriotic treats – will be served and the ceremony will follow at about 12:30 p.m.

 

Ford, who is among leading forces behind several community events, said he is honored to emcee the observance. Owner of Ford Funeral Home here in Bridgeport, he knows the importance of supporting and encouraging families who have experienced losses. Each member of the community, present and past, have played a role in the development and nurturing of our city and it is fitting and necessary to pay tribute to those individuals, he said.

Tricia Bombardiere, cemetery office administrator, said the event has become an annual citywide effort to remember and pay tribute to community members who have passed on. From the first year it was held, the event was embraced by community members and it has grown each year. 

 

"Last year, we tripled the amount of people we had the first year. We had well over 100," Bombardiere said. "I've had people come up to me thanking me, telling me this ceremony is a wonderful way to show the community that we truly do care."

 

Bombardiere said it is not unusual for families to pop into her office to say hi or let her know how they are doing following the loss of a loved one. 

 

"They really become family to me," she said. "People tell me they would like to see this happen every year and continue to grow. They are especially fond of getting our area youth involved. I've heard that a few times. I also saw familiar faces last year from the year prior, so they keep coming back."

 

Memorial Day is about gathering with family and friends to honor and remember our veterans and loved ones who have passed on, Bombardiere said. 

 

"This event allows us to bring together families, patrons and community at Bridgeport Cemetery," she said. "Bring your family and celebrate with us.”

 

As planning continues, details about the event will be shared. Bombardiere hopes community members will save the date and plan to attend.