In a ceremony of remembrance and appreciation, the trees around the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital were lit for the holiday season late Wednesday afternoon. Fred B. Morgan Jr., 90, of Edgartown was this year’s official lighter for what was billed as the Trees of Lights ceremony. Following a short speech, Mr. Morgan, wearing a green bow tie shaped like a spring of holly, lit the tall tree in the hospital lobby.

Mr. Morgan was introduced by hospital president and chief executive officer Timothy J. Walsh, who praised the decorated World War II veteran for his work in the community, especially in public service. Many years ago Mr. Morgan had served as hospital administrator.

The Martha’s Vineyard Hospital Auxiliary’s Trees of Lights, once called the Tree of Lights to signify one tree, is a significant annual holiday observance for the hospital and its friends. They’ve been doing it for 28 years. Each light that glows on the holiday trees is dedicated symbolically to someone through a modest contribution to the hospital. Muriel (Sue) Mill, director of volunteer services at the hospital, told those gathered that every dollar donated in memory or in honor of someone goes to the hospital.

Mrs. Mill told the Gazette afterwards that the auxiliary has received funds from over 2,000 contributors. A $25 contribution puts one light on a tree. A $100 contribution designates five lights.

Dorothy Banks of Vineyard Haven played Christmas tunes and carols on the piano and was joined by many voices.

Mike Taus, hospital engineer, said there were particular challenges in illuminating the lights in front of the hospital, and M.V. Electronics of Vineyard Haven provided assistance.

For more information on the Trees of Lights and the hospital auxiliary call 508-957-0295.

— Mark Alan Lovewell