“It’s an incredible honor, [a] surprise but an honor as well” said Matt Dewitt, as he and wife Anna prepare to ride as the grand marshals of Hartland’s Memorial Day parade Monday, May 29, 2023.
Dewitt has participated carrying the American flag in the past 30 years of the parade, and this day had just gotten to the 1964 Ford Galaxie after being a gunner in the 21-gun salute moments before to kick of this year’s parade.
Asked how Anna felt, she said “I just get choked up,” and choked up as she said it. She continued, “It’s such a great community… pretty incredible.”
The parade has been organized by the Hartland Area Community Council for the past 88 years, according to the brochure the Council put together outlining the Memorial Day activities.
The Community Council was formed from a vision John Robert Crouse had for the development of the area back in the 1930s, and the parade has been held continuously except for a short hiatus during the pandemic.
Hartland High School and middle school band members entertained along the parade route, which was led by the traditional honor guard and numerous floats.
Military vehicles, Hartland Area Fire engines, gymnasts and cheer squads also brought a celebratory tone to the day.
