Photo Gallery: 2012 Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony

Residents of Western Springs filled the downtown on a hot Memorial Day morning Monday for the annual parade and ceremony recognizing the bravery and sacrifices made by the military veterans of the country and the Village, especially those who paid the ultimate price.

“Today we gather as a free society to enter a collective prayer as tribute for the individuals who sacrificed all in service to America,” said Western Springs VFW Post 10778 Cmdr. Chuck Bosko in a speech at the ceremony. “We also acknowledge the families who they loved and who loved them. Our lives would certainly be different if not for their sacrifices.”

The Grand Marshal of the parade was 35-year Village resident Mel Villicana, who served as a medic in Vietnam and received two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star and the Army Commendation Medal with oak-leaf cluster. Villicana dedicated his brief speech to his fallen comrades and friends, and complimented the Village on its memorial tradition.

“We really appreciate that, for a town this small to put on a parade like this,” Villicana said. “That’s all a veteran really needs: they want the appreciation, a handshake and a ‘thank you for your service.’ That’s all we’ve ever wanted.

“We’ve got to remember that veterans, all veterans, at one time in their life wrote a blank check to the United States government for the amount of, and up to, their life. And we should appreciate that.”

As always, the parade preceding the ceremony travelled from Spring Rock Park along Burlington Avenue, eventually crossing the train tracks to Tower Green. Marchers and riders included local veterans, Little Leaguers, Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts and the Lyons Township and Nazareth Academy marching bands, among many others.

Check out some of our photos from the event above!