NAHANT — Nahant will continue one of its most enduring traditions on Memorial Day as residents, veterans, students, first responders, and community organizations gather to honor the people who died in service to the United States during the town’s annual Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies.
The 2026 observance will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the parade stepping off from Lowlands Park and proceeding through town before concluding at Greenlawn Cemetery for the community’s formal remembrance ceremony.
“This day is about honoring sacrifice, preserving memory, and bringing the entire community together in remembrance,” Veterans Agent Bob Fields said. “Memorial Day in Nahant reflects the deep respect this town has always shown for those who gave their lives in service to our country.”
Leading this year’s parade as Grand Marshal will be Vietnam-era Army Veteran Wayne Noonan, recognized for both his military service and his continued dedication to veterans and the Nahant community.
One of the parade’s most solemn moments will take place at the Town Wharf during Nahant’s traditional Sea Service Ceremony, which honors military personnel lost at sea. During the ceremony, Vietnam Marine Corps Veteran Richard Lombard will commit a memorial wreath to the water in tribute to fallen service members.
“The Sea Service Ceremony remains one of the most meaningful parts of the day,” Fields said. “It reflects Nahant’s coastal heritage and reminds us that sacrifice has touched every branch of service and every generation.”
Following the waterfront observance, marchers and attendees will continue to Greenlawn Cemetery, where the town’s main Memorial Day ceremony will feature prayers, remarks, musical tributes, and honors presented in memory of the fallen.
A longstanding Nahant tradition involving students and staff from Johnson Elementary School will again play a prominent role in the ceremonies.
Student Galileo Anderson-Sinclair will deliver a recitation of President Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address,” while Grade 6 President Mary DiLisio will ride in the parade’s lead vehicle representing the school community and Nahant’s youth.
Johnson Elementary School Principal Heather Castonguay, music teacher Jessica Puga, and teachers Kayla Harrington and Tessa Dearing will also participate in the parade and ceremonies alongside students.
“It’s especially important to see young people involved in Memorial Day,” Fields said. “These traditions continue because each generation learns the meaning behind them and carries that responsibility forward.”
Town officials are encouraging residents and visitors to attend the ceremonies, display American flags, and join the community in honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.
