(Priscilla Herdman for The New Pine Plains Herald)
Three vintage biplanes soared over Route 199 on Saturday morning, signaling the start of Milan’s Memorial Day parade and marking the tenth consecutive year the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome has opened the town’s remembrance ceremony.
To commemorate the milestone, Town Supervisor Al Lo Brutto presented Aerodrome Director Tara Grieb with a plaque of appreciation on the lawn of Wilcox Memorial Town Hall. Standing before a crowd of residents, Lo Brutto welcomed attendees to what he called “the biggest, littlest parade in Dutchess County.”
The procession began with a riderless horse — a traditional symbol honoring fallen soldiers — followed by color guards, marching musicians, and a convoy of local fire trucks. State troopers briefly closed a section of Route 199 near the Taconic State Parkway to accommodate the short but heartfelt parade.
(R. A. Hermans/ The New Pine Plains Herald)
This year’s observance was dedicated to the memory of Milan residents who served in World War II. One by one, 102 names were read aloud in a solemn roll call. Marine Master Sergeant Timothy Williams, addressing the assembled crowd, spoke of “devotion to duty and love of country.”
Four Civil War re-enactors fired three flintlock volleys in a salute to the fallen, followed by a stirring performance by the Amerscot Highland Pipe Band of Poughkeepsie. The band’s medley included the “Marines’ Hymn” and “Amazing Grace,” bringing many in the crowd to quiet reflection.
The ceremony concluded with the playing of “Taps,” as the last notes faded into the warm spring air.