BARRINGTON, NJ (CBS) – A Camden County swim club hosted a special flag raising ceremony during the opening Memorial Day weekend.
The ceremony at Tavistock Hills Swim Club started at noon on Sunday, followed by family activities. Rachel Negro-Henderson, president of the club’s board of directors, said the board voted to hold the event, which they hope will become an annual tradition.
“We often know that many people think of Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial kickoff to summer. But our board has decided to adopt a new tradition to honor the true reason for Memorial Day,” Negro-Henderson said.
Members of the local Boy Scouts 96 and 122 had the honor of performing the ceremony. One of the scouts, 12-year-old Ryan Scanlon, said he was proud to help.
“To show respect for those who died and served in war, military personnel, who defend us and do important things for our country,” Scanlon said.
According to Negro-Henderson, the swim club currently has 243 family memberships. Some members, including Lauren DeLano, grew up there.
“I have been involved in this pool since I was born,” DeLano said. “I really enjoy this. It’s my favorite part of the year.”
DeLano, a sophomore in high school, now returns for her second year as a lifeguard. It’s a family ritual.
“My mom, my cousins, they all have lifeguards here, so it’s really great to continue that family legacy,” she said.
As she continues her family’s tradition, the flag above the pool reminds her of her freedom to do so.
“It’s great to honor those who came before us and fought for our freedom,” she said.
