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Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, became a federal holiday in 1971 and honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. As it does each year, the city of Clifton gathered to watch the annual parade which featured Clifton police, firefighters, the popular Mustang Marching Band, scouts troops, veterans, and others. It was a beautiful, sunny day with a light breeze and low humidity - perfect weather for this hometown tribute to the fallen.
The Aponte family gathered on the corner of Allwood Road and Sussex, waiting eagerly for the parade to start. They've been attending this parade every year since they moved to Clifton in 2013. Mr. Aponte, who is a retired U.S. Marine, said that "the overall celebration is amazing."
Karen Paris, wife of BOE commissioner Alan Paris, and their grown daughter Alaina Garcia were waiting for the band. Said Alaina, "I've been coming to this parade my whole life."
Members of the Clifton Police Department led the parade.
Drum Major Romeo led the Mustang Marching Band
The Grand Marshal in a spiffy vintage auto
Mayor Ray Grabowski and other City Council members and Board of Education commissioners
BOE commissioners Judy Bassford and Alan Paris, carrying the names of those lost in battle
Jill and Mark Scancarella with daughters Maddie and Grace
Clifton Fire Department
Grace and Maddie admire Ladder Company 2's truck
Clifton High School's JROTC marched
It wouldn't be a parade without bagpipes!
Athenia Veterans' Post Auxiliary
Thomas Marriello walks proudly alongside his dad with Clifton PRAISE.
Everyone's favorite cookie dealers - the Girl Scouts!
Clifton Scouts Pack 21
Clifton Junior Athletic League
Carrying the flags for Clifton Disabled Vets
A friendly wave from the Vietnam Vets and Avenue of the Flags volunteers
The parade ended at Chelsea Park, behind the Allwood Library, with a short memorial service. Another was held at Main Memorial Park at 11 am.
On this Memorial Day, we remember the many lives that have been lost and all of the families who were left without a brother, sister, father, or mother.
"We take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude." - Cynthia Ozick, American author.
