THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, MAy 29, 2026 Page 11 City of Everett Honors Fallen Heroes at Annual Memorial Day Ceremony Community gathers at Glenwood Cemetery in solemn remembrance despite rainy weather. Everett Mayor Robert Van Campen, Erika Corbeli, State Rep. Joseph McGonagle, Ward 2 Councillor Stephanie Martins, Ward 4 Councillor Holly Garcia and Committeewoman-at-Large Millie Cardello. Everett Police Chief Paul Strong, Everett Fire Chief Joseph Hickey, State Rep. Joseph McGonagle, Councillor at-Large Katy Rogers, Veteran Commissioner Erika Corbeli, Council President Stephanie Smith, Ward 2 Councillor Stephanie Martins, Ward 4 Councillor Holly Garcia, School Committeewoman-at-Large Millie Cardello, and Mayor Robert Van Campen. (Advocate photos by Emily Harney) Giving the invocation and benediction for the day, Bishop Robert Brown — US Air Force. State Representat ive Joseph McGonagle greets those in attendance for the Memorial Day Ceremony in Everett. Mayor Robert Van Campen addresses those in attendance during the Memorial Day Ceremony at Glenwood Cemetery. Everett Director of Veterans Services Erika Corbeli (USCG) with opening remarks. Mayor Robert Van Campen speaks with a Gold Star Veteran in attendance for Everett’s Memorial Day Ceremony. E VERETT, MA – On Monday, May 25, 2026, the City of Everett held its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Glenwood Cemetery, bringing together veterans, families, elected officials, and community members to honor and remember the men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States. Despite steady rain throughout the morning, attendees gathered in solemn remembrance, refl ecting Everett’s enduring commitment to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifi ce. The ceremony was led by DiKeynote speaker, LTC John M. Cristiano (US MAARNG). rector of Veterans Services Erika Corbeli, who delivered the welcome remarks, introductions, and reading of the offi cial proclamation. “While freedom is often spoken about in grand terms, today reminds us that freedom has always come at a human cost,” said Director Corbeli. “Behind every fl ag placed at a grave is a story. A son. A daughter. A husband. A wife. A friend. A neighbor. Someone who was deeply loved and whose absence was deeply felt.” Bishop Robert G. Brown offered the invocation and benediction, while Veterans Agent Gerri Miranda led the Pledge of Everett Fire Honor Guard members; Sean Hogan, Dan Lloyd and Adam Ragucci. Allegiance. School Committee Member and U.S. Air Force veteran Millie Cardello conducted the Roll Call of Honor, and State Representative Joseph McGonagle delivered remarks recognizing the signifi cance of Memorial Day. Everett Police Sergeant John Cristiano, a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army National Guard, delivered the keynote address. Mayor Robert Van Campen addressed attendees with remarks refl ecting on the meaning of Memorial Day and the responsibility shared by all Americans to honor the legacy of those who served. Keynote speaker, LTC John M. Cristiano greets his mother and Everett School Committee member, Jeanne Cristiano (US ARMY). “From the flags placed throughout our cemeteries to ceremonies like this, and to the veterans, families, students, and community members gathered here today, we ensure that those we lost will never become just a passing memory,” Mayor Van Campen said. “May we do more than look back with pride. Let us look forward with purpose. Let us recommit ourselves to the values for which these heroes gave everything: unity over division, service over self-interest, and hope over fear.” Mayor Van Campen and Director Corbeli also recognized Gold Star families, as well as veterans whose service and sacrifi ces continue long after their time in uniform. Though the ceremony took place under rainy skies, the weather did little to deter the community from gathering in tribute and remembrance. Following the program, attendees shared coff ee and donuts as residents continued conversations and refl ections together. The City of Everett thanks all who helped organize, participate in, and attend this year’s Memorial Day Ceremony and remains committed to preserving the memory and legacy of the nation’s fallen heroes.
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