54.0°,
Mostly Cloudy Here come the parades
“I really believe in the quote, ‘Those who forget their history are doomed to repeat it,’” said John Sottnik, third vice commander of Wantagh American Legion Post 1273. “American men and women have fought and died to preserve our freedom, and we celebrate and give thanks for their ultimate sacrifice on Memorial Day so that we, and our children, can live in liberty and freedom. Memorial Day is a history lesson for all of us in Wantagh.”
Residents and visitors will line the streets on Monday to pay tribute to those who have served and those who continue to protect the U.S. Both Seaford and Wantagh will host Memorial Day parades to honor those who died in combat.
Wantagh’s parade has taken place every year since 1945, when the local legion was founded. It will begin on Beltagh Avenue, in front of the Wantagh Middle School-High School complex, head south on Wantagh Avenue, then east on Park Avenue, where it will end at the legion.
“The parade is a perfect time to put aside our crazy schedules and gather as a community,” Sottnik said. “We all lead such busy lives, so it’s a blessing to be able to stop and take a little time to enjoy a parade and welcome the beginning of summer.”
Starting at 10 a.m., various groups will march in the parade, led by the legion’s pipe band, its color guard and its members. The Wantagh Kiwanis Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the ciation, the Lions Club, the Knights of Columbus, the high school marching band and Board of Education trustees will walk down the street as well.
“We should never forget the sacrifices that our veterans have made to keep our country free,” said John Menechino, a past legion commander and color guard captain. “The parade will hopefully boost patriotism in our town.
“My favorite part is seeing the faces of the young children along the parade route and hopefully having their parents explain to them about the veterans and respect for our flag,” he added.
