Pittsburgh-area communities honor fallen soldiers with Memorial Day parades
Monday is Memorial Day, and several municipalities across the Pittsburgh area are hosting parades to honor members of the U.S. military who died while serving in the Armed Forces.
Longstanding tradition continues in Canonsburg
Veterans, first responders, and people of all ages were in Canonsburg for the annual Memorial Day parade that was about remembering those who lost their lives to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
The sound of "Taps" is one many families know all too well, a powerful reminder of the lives lost in service to our country.
"Today is just a wonderful day to honor those who have served and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice," said Canonsburg Mayor David Rome. "Those people that served to give us the freedoms we have today, that's just probably the most important part for me."
The day began with remarks from local and state leaders, followed by a parade that has been a Canonsburg tradition for more than 50 years.
Joining military, first responders, and community members was the Grand Marshal, a familiar face representing the state: Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity, also a proud veteran.
"It's why we can enjoy the freedoms we do today. The enduring American dream of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Think about it. Two hundred fifty years ago this summer, our founding fathers stood up and did something the world has never seen," Garrity said.
While many are home from work, spending time with their families, catching parade candy on the streets, or cooking out, many here say it's important not to lose sight of the true meaning of the holiday.
"I think I'd ask everyone to thank a veteran for what they've done," Mayor Rome said.
Hundreds attend Latrobe parade
People in Latrobe also lined the sidewalks as the city's annual Memorial Day parade made its way through town.
When asked why he came out to today's parade, Latrobe resident and U.S. Army veteran Bruce Phillips said, "I am a veteran, and I always support our veterans. We have a lot of them that didn't make it home, so we have to support that."
While not as large as the city's annual Fourth of July parade, many said the Memorial Day event carries deeper significance.
The roughly one-mile route ends at the Latrobe Veterans Memorial Plaza, where a wreath-laying ceremony gives people young and old a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made by generations of servicemen and women.
"I think it's so important that we all remember the people who gave us this freedom that we have in this beautiful land of the free and home of the brave," said Ann Amatucci. "But we have to remember how brave they were, and it is important to memorialize them and remember them. And also remember their families and all who sacrificed so that we can live where we live."
Retired Army veteran Blaine Weiers was part of the honor guard that fired volleys during Monday's ceremony. When asked how it felt to see so many people attend the parade and memorial service, he said, "I'm happy. I'd like to see more, but I'm just glad that people still remember the fallen and remember why they have the freedom to come down here."
Stay with KDKA-TV and KDKA.com for continuing Memorial Day coverage from around the region.
