FRIENDSVILLE, Md. — On a beautiful Memorial Day, the Town of Friendsville came together in a moving display of patriotism and gratitude to honor the brave six men who gave their lives in service to our country, Danny Nicklow, Ross Fike, Charles Hook, Roger Garlick, Norman Thomas & Thomas Fike.
The day began with a moving Memorial Day Parade, led by the Maryland State Police and announced by Kirt Harshman. They were followed by the Accident American Legion Honor Guard, Maryland Natural Resource Police, family members riding in tribute to their fallen loved ones, local veterans, an old church bell from the era of 1872-1875, the Northern High School JROTC Drill Team and Band, Mayor Spencer R. Schlosnagle, the Friendsville Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department, Northern Rescue Squad, and the Garrett County Sheriff’s Department. The impressive convoy of emergency vehicles brought a powerful closure to the procession.
Immediately following the parade, a solemn Memorial Day Service took place at the Friendsville Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department.
The service featured moving moments of remembrance and reflection:
- Welcome & dedication of Six Memorial Banners in honor of Friendsville Vietnam Veterans by Pastor Daymond Schmuck.
- “Honor of the Fallen” performed on the bagpipes by Marci McClive
- An opening prayer offered by Pastor Mike Robinson
- Opening remarks delivered by Pastor Dana Umbel
- Musical tributes from Lori & Daymond Schmuck, Fred & Jim Fox, and Scott Schwing
- Luanne Ruddell and several members, representing the Garrett County Central Committee, presented each family with a personal letter from President Donald J. Trump
- Commissioner Paul Edwards delivered commendations from Governor Wes Moore and proclamation from the Garrett County Commissioners to each of the families.
- Mayor Spencer Schlosnagle shared powerful stories and a timeline honoring the lives and sacrifices of the six local Vietnam veterans
The service concluded with a poignant closing ceremony:
- The tolling of the bell by Mark Gallagher
- A rifle salute coordinated by Ken Hinebaugh
- A rendition of “Taps” performed by Jim Fox
A heartfelt thank you goes to Dottie Frazee and the many dedicated volunteers whose tireless efforts brought this day of remembrance to life.