Memorial Day Parade Draws A Big Crowd

Thousands of people gathered yesterday along the Yorktown Memorial Day parade route to pay respects to those who have served the country at one point or another.

"It's remembering everyone who didn't make it back from any battles," said Pat McDonough, who is a member of the American Legion, Yorktown Post #1009.

Prior to the parade, a wreath-laying ceremony was held at Town Hall. Town Supervisor Susan Siegel thanked everyone who gathered to honor the brave men and women who had died fighting for the freedom of the country.

In attendance was 2008 West Point graduate Amit Patel, who also wanted people to take a moment and think about those who have lost their lives. He is town councilman Vishnu Patel's son, and will be deploying to Afghanistan in 2011.

"I've been training for six years," he said. "I'm ready to do this."

Civic organizations and civilians participated in the procession, including the American Legion, Korean War Veterans Association, Yorktown Volunteer Ambulance Corp, the Lion Club, Boy and Girl Scouts, the Yorktown High School Band and more.

"Memorial Day is a day to reflect on how other people have served, kept our country safe, and what it's like to be American," Lion Club member Jackie Bucci said.

Peter Cooper, member of the Yorktown Volunteer Ambulance Corps, said the day was about paying respect to veterans not only during conflicts, but after conflicts as well.

"We just don't do enough in terms of post conflict care," he said. 

Other residents, brought their children, and said by attending the parade they are remembering the fallen veterans.

Eight-year-old Ethan Warren, of Yorktown Heights, thought the parade was good and said he liked that it was quick. Ethan mostly enjoyed collecting candy thrown on the streets by the Boy and Girl Scouts.

"I found a tootsie roll and sweet tart," he said.

Sharon Stone, of Yorktown Heights, brought her three-year-old son to watch the parade.

"They did a nice job," she said. "They had a lot of town involvement."