Patriotism on parade in Glen Cove

Memorial Day Parade is well attended

Posted

The streets of Glen Cove were a sea of red, white and blue on Monday as thousands of residents gathered to watch the city’s annual Memorial Day parade. Starting at the corner of Forest Avenue and Dosoris Lane, the display of patriotism snaked through the downtown before ending in front of the Glen Cove Library.

A memorial ceremony took place in Monument Park before the start of the parade, in which several parade officials spoke, honoring those who have died while serving in the military. Family members of William Kevin Colwell, who served in the Air Force during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, were honored, and retired Marine Sgt. Major Robert Pemberton read “In Flanders Field,” a poem by John McCrae, written during World War I.

Once the parade got started, under the ceremonial leadership of Grand Marshal Robert Curiano, a variety of veterans associations, marching bands, fire departments, city and state dignitaries, community organizations and more were cheered on by spectators of all ages. As veterans marched by, the crowd shouted their names in gratitude for their service, receiving an appreciative wave in return.

The day after the parade, Fred Nielsen, the chairman of the Memorial Day Parade Committee, said he was happy with the event. “It’s very affirming that this community not only sends people into service,” he said, “but that we appreciate them, and that this appreciation and awareness is growing.”