Bridesburg Parade marks Memorial Day tradition

The event billed as the region’s oldest and biggest Memorial Day Parade was held in Philadelphia’s Bridesburg neighborhood, and hundreds turned out to participate and view the event.

Solemn ceremonies began the morning, with the traditional flag raising, rifle salute and taps to start a day of remembrance. The Bridesburg Parade is a tradition that dates back to 1946, and Navy Veteran from Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf Nicole Dubek came with her grandfather, a veteran of World War II.

“It brings back a lot of memories to remember those who have been in battles and not made it home,” Dubek said. 

Korean War Vet Walter Debes said that as veterans of Vietnam and Korea are aging, American Legion and VFW post aren’t being replenished with veterans of more recent conflicts. But he has faith that will change with time.

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“It’s been that way since World War II, it was the same way,” Debes said. “It takes them a few years to get people to join a post and get involved.”

Financial issues caused a neighboring parade to be cancelled, so this year’s Bridesburg event absorbed many of the marching units. They included everything from Boy Scout troops to Mummers, who kept spectators tapping their toes in the chilly morning air.

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