May 26, 2023—
The Hartland Area Community Council is proud to announce the 2023 Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshals are Matt and Anna Devitt!
Matt and Anna are staples to the Village and the Hartland community. Both of them grew up in Hartland and attended Hartland Schools, as well as their two children and their granddaughter–who is the 5th generation from their family attending HCS. The two were high school sweethearts and have been married for 45 years.
Matt’s service as an Officer in the Air Force took them around the world. He served from 1977 to 1992 in a top secret program that took them all over the Midwest, and a few more states including Maryland and Nevada, and overseas to Turkey. But when he was offered an early out, they knew Hartland was where they wanted to be and where they wanted to raise their children. While in service, they were awarded the Great American Family representing the Air Force presented by First Lady Nancy Reagan in 1988.
Anna dedicated over 28 years to Hartland Schools and retired in 2021. She was in the role of Athletic Administrative Assistant for 23 years and worked under four athletic directors. JD Wheeler, Hartland Athletic Director, said, “From day one Anna showed tremendous enthusiasm in her role. I can honestly say that it was not a job for Anna, it was a way of life.”
When asked what they love best about the Hartland community, Matt didn’t hesitate to answer, “It’s the small town feel with friendly neighbors and people.” Anna said, “We’re lucky here in Hartland. There is a great school system and great teachers, wonderful coaches that mentor our children, and there is so much to do for a small town!” As soon as you mention the Grand Marshal selection, the couple beams with pride. For Anna, it is really special. Her mother, Diana Sweeten, was the parade Grand Marshal in 1994. She couldn’t wait to call her mom and tell her that she and Matt had been selected for 2023!
These days for fun the couple enjoys fishing, kayaking, nighttime rock hunting and of course watching Hartland athletic events!
Matt’s view of the parade will be slightly different this year as he has carried the American Flag in the Memorial Day Parade for 30 years! But not this year. He joins Anna in the Grand Marshal convertible! The Hartland Area Community Council is thrilled to have such proud Hartland residents and supporters as the Grand Marshals for the 2023 Memorial Day parade. Matt and Anna ARE Hartland and definitely represent the culture and pride that are valued in the community