The 29th Annual Neville Memorial Day Parade is coming soon. About 30 years ago, our friend was a member of the American Legion. He and mom loved our military, and the freedom we have; they wanted to bring it back. The Military Memorial Day occurs in our community.
Back then, the parade was just a high school band and a few fire trucks. Neither of them had ever planned a parade before, but they decided to try once; they got okay.
During a Legion meeting, Dad asked if he could arrange the parade. They informed him that he could only proceed if he became the Legion’s Commander. The next year, he assumed the position of Commander.
! That is when our parents start working together to organize the parade, and it became something really special.
In the first 20 years, the team worked hard together to build the first Memorial Day Parades in Pennsylvania, right in our small town of merely 4,500 residents and a single traffic light. Our parade committee consisted of only four members who were my dad, Mom, me, and Al, who served as our treasurer. Mom spent about six months each year volunteering, making phone calls and organizing lists. Dad took care of inviting military groups from Fort Indian town Gap, a nearby base. The parade grew bigger every year, and more and more people came to watch.
Their goal was simple and unique: to remember and honor those who never came back home.
Mom always stayed out of the spotlight. We had to convince her to join the parade a few times because she helped prefer helping behind the scenes, like organizing cars and directing people. She was small but strong. When she asked for something, usually it was done.
I remember someone saying, your mom asked me to drive the convertible in parade. And when I asked if he would say no, he laughed and said, no way could I say to your mom; she makes astonishing things happen.
One year, my teenage daughter declined to carry the Division Banner. I instructed her to simply decline Grammy. However, after observing mom’s efforts, my daughter thinks and stated, I will carry the Division Banner. Mom inspired others without even trying.
Nine years ago, I assumed control of the parade with a group of six. We uphold their dream and maintain our town’s pride. Before the day of the parade, individuals adorn their houses, hang up flags, and prepare to greet around 5,000 guests who arrive to observe, celebrate, and commemorate. Immediately following the parade, a Memorial Service occurs to commemorate the day.
This year will dad’s last parade. His health is getting worse, and he is now receiving comfort care. He simply talks about the parade. Will it go? Should I wear my uniform? We knew he might be too weak to ride, but watching from inside is not right. So with help, we will dress him in his uniform and put him at the front of the parade, the one last time.
This Saturday, Neville will honor our hero, V. Carl Gacono.
