The Honor Guard marches along the parade route carrying flags to honor state and national veterans during the Memorial Day festivities in Grafton Monday afternoon.
GRAFTON, W.Va. — Thousands of spectators lined the sun-draped streets of Grafton Monday for the 147th edition of the Memorial Day parade.
The Grafton Memorial Day Parade has a special place in the history of Memorial Day celebrations as the longest ongoing event recognizing veteran’s contributions and efforts.
For 147 years, Grafton has hosted the event that brings out the young and old on a day meant to honor the sacrifices of military members who have served since the beginning of the U.S. As one wise old veteran said, “This is what we do. We honor those who have served and fought to protect our freedom.”
Many attendees said they were appreciative of the freedoms they have as Americans. Grafton Police Captain R.J. Durrett has been attending for 26 years, beginning as a first-grader at Anna Jarvis Elementary.
“This parade unites us,” he said. It brought back memories of when he marched with his classmates, Durrett added.
Grafton High School graduate Fay Stewart said it was bittersweet marching in her last parade as a student.
“I will miss walking with my classmates,” she said.
Every elementary and middle school in Taylor County participated in the parade along with several Little League teams and local civic groups.
Many of those in attendance referenced “freedom” when asked why it’s important to recognize veterans. John Hardesty, a parade attendee, said “It’s important to honor veterans.” He said he will try to pass down that value to his granddaughter, Kathrine, who was with him at the parade.