Clermont’s 2025 Memorial Day ceremony was a tribute to the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country. Held on Monday, May 26, at Waterfront Park, the event brought the community together to reflect, remember, and honor those who have given their lives in service to the nation.
For a second year, the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall was part of Clermont’s Memorial Day Ceremony. The traveling wall is a smaller version of the Washington, D.C. memorial that honors the great sacrifices of the Vietnam War. The Patriot Guard Riders escorted the memorial to Waterfront Park, where it was displayed through Monday, May 26.
The ceremony featured keynote speaker Major Stanley Lay, a U.S. Army veteran with a distinguished military career, shared some experiences and memories from his 26-year military career. He served in the 82nd Airborne Division. Currently, Major Lay serves as the VFW District Senior-Vice Commander of District 18 and remains an active member of Clermont VFW Post 5277 where he has held the positions of Post Commander and Service Officer.
Clermont Mayor Tim Murry, retired Air Force, welcomed guests. Lake County Commissioner Sean Parks delivered the official Memorial Day Proclamation. The presentation of colors presented by the Clermont Battalion was followed by special remarks from Congressman Daniel Webster.
All veterans and active-duty service members were invited to stand and be acknowledged for their service. Four WWII veterans, all over 100 years old, were honored for their service.
East Ridge High School Song Director Robert Walker led the “Rhythm of the Knights”, in an arrangement of patroitic songs.
A rifle salute honored the fallen, followed by a moving performance of Echo Taps, resonating through the solemn crowd.
“We must never forget those who gave everything for this Country,” said Robert Mock, CTMC (SS), USN, Retired, and a member of the South Lake Florida Base Submarine Veterans. “As Americans, it is our duty to honor those soldiers who gave their lives and to ensure our younger generations understand that sacrifice and carry on the tradition.”
The ceremony was presented by the South Lake Florida Base Submarine Veterans, VFW Post 5277, American Legion Post 55, and the Marine Corps League Detachment 1120—organizations dedicated to honoring the legacy and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes.
