Veterans Honored at Annual Parade

American flags flew in the breeze as hundreds of people watched veterans, Boy and Girl Scout troops, young athletes, and high school marching bands walk down Valley Road in the town's annual Memorial Day Parade Monday.

“This day isn’t for the veterans who are here,” said Joe Nevatinski, a Vietnam veteran. “It’s a memorial for those who did not come back.”

Nevatinski was one of three grand marshals of this year’s parade. Edward Glassbool, of the Kaufman-Harris Wayne Post 695, and Tom Williams, of American Legion Post 174, were the others.

“It is important that we remember all those who gave their lives so we can have our tomorrows,” Glassbool said. 

The town’s police officers, fire companies, and first aid squad, and dozens of civic and community organizations, marched in the parade to show their support

“This day helps us to understand everyone’s sacrifices over the years,” Police Chief John Readon said. “Quite a number of our officers are veterans.”

Hundreds of people cheered and applauded as the parade made its way to the Veterans’ Memorial in front of the municipal complex.

“These veterans have done so much to protect the simple freedoms we take for granted,” said Mayor Christopher Vergano. “A day like this teaches children what the military is all about.”

Resident Arnold Sisco, an Army veteran, said that the real reason for having Memorial Day is often overshadowed by retail sales and trips to the beach.

"The remembrance of the troops is really lacking,” Sisco said.

Christine Marzullo's son played the trombone in the Wayne Hills marching band.

“It’s the patriotic thing to do, to come out to a community event like this,” Marzullo said.