Pocono News Section

2009 West Side Memorial Day Parade

2009 West Side Memorial Day Parade - Monday, May 25, 2009 at 5:45PM EST

FORTY FORT, LUZERNE COUNTY- A Memorial Day tradition that's spanned decades continued again in the Wyoming Valley. The annual West Side Memorial Day Parade marched from Kingston to Forty Fort. For many it's all about celebrating patriotism.
Police cars lead the way for the 2009 parade. Hundreds of people walked or rode the parade route. Many more are here to watch and enjoy the sights and sounds.

This parade has no shortage of colorful characters. For Norma and Rob Henderson's family, the parade is a must see. "It's a lot of fun and it brings back a lot of memories," said Norma.

Rob added, "The only time we get together and sit for a long time together as a family, you know, so every year we do it."

And what they see this year is plenty of patriotic pride. Everyone from firefighters to civic groups to veterans themselves turn out for this parade. They say it's important to show patriotism. And people here lining the streets say it's important to them as well.

Bob Henderson said, "Look at the flags. Look at the people who are in this. And I think it's patriotism that people come out and just feel good about being here."

Henderson, a World War II veteran, attended this parade as a boy. Now 89, his childhood memories are still vivid to this day. "I can remember a couple of civil war veterans walking in this parade. I remember seeing them there. That goes back awhile. That goes back awhile," he added.

America remains at war on two fronts this Memorial Day. That's why many believe it's more important than ever to give veterans and active forces this annual community tribute. Mary Harris said, "Sometimes they don't get as much recognition as they deserve. So, I think it's good. I mean, like, everybody's cheering for them."

As the crowd enjoys this parade, many say it's a tradition that helps instill patriotism -- something to pass along from generation to generation.