Cold, raw rain swept across the Island May 23, with  wind-driven droplets blowing sideways and nudging crowds to keep moving with their plans. In Surf City, Mother Nature forced the annual Memorial Day ceremony indoors to the firehouse, where warmth pushed back the weather’s bite — a small refuge that made the event feel more solemn.

“Our gathering is just one small spark in the flame of pride that burns across our nation today and every day.