Photos: Biddeford-Saco Memorial Day Ceremony

On Memorial Day 2025, the cities of Saco and Biddeford came together for a heartfelt joint ceremony to honor the brave servicemembers who gave their lives in defense of our country.

Veteran Kaylee Lewis guided the morning as emcee, welcoming guest speaker Don Chretien—a retired U.S. Marine Corps helicopter pilot from Biddeford and author of Hovering in Harm’s Way, a memoir chronicling his experiences in service.

The ceremony featured patriotic performances by student bands from Thornton Academy, Saco Middle School and Biddeford schools, with selections including “Sousa Spectacular,” “Grand Old Flag,” and “God Bless America.”

In a moving tribute during “Taps,” U.S. Air Force veteran and Grand Marshal Ray Hallczuk, who served during the Vietnam War, placed a ceremonial wreath at Waterhouse Field. Earlier in the day, a traditional wreath drop from the Main Street bridge over the Saco River honored those lost at sea, with Thornton Academy junior Lana Dukhey performing “Taps” as the wreath was released.

Though the ceremony was adapted this year due to construction, the spirit of unity and gratitude was as strong as ever.

We are so thankful to the American Legion, AmVets, Vietnam Veterans of America, the Mayor’s Veterans Committee, Heart of Biddeford, and the many local officials, first responders and volunteers whose hard work made this meaningful event for our communities possible.