Although Memorial Day is hailed the unofficial start of the summer season, it carries a much deeper meaning for the thousands of people who came out to pay their respects during Memorial Day services held in Norwich and across Chenango County on Monday. From the parade that marched down East Main Street to grave decorations at Mt. Hope Cemetery, it was a time of celebration as well as somberness for the service men and women who forfeited their life for the protection of our country’s freedom. Photos by Frank Speziale.