Brookline hosts 90th Memorial Day parade with dedication of World War I cannon
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Rain or shine, Brookline determined its parade time with its 90th annual Memorial Day celebration.
They call it the largest Memorial Day parade in Southwestern Pennsylvania, and in Brookline, that means the playing of taps, the firing of guns, and the dedication of a special war memorial.
With the help of Boy Scouts and state and city representatives, two newly painted benches, wreaths, and the reading of a historic declaration make the World War I cannon and Brookline's Veteran's Memorial Park a historic monument.
"(It's) important. This canon has been here a long time," District 4 City Councilman Anthony Coghill said.
As a fixture in Brookline for decades, this canon's survived much more, including a PRT bus hitting the iron fence surrounding it.
With the dedication completed, bands, kids and veterans filled the streets for the big parade.
"It's just great to come out and help our kids recognize the lives that were given for our freedoms," Boy Scout father Brian Rach said. "Thank you for your service," his son Ryder added.
Hearing and seeing the gratitude and support makes a difference to veterans like 97-year-old World War II veteran Trevor Kallist.
"Stay by their [veterans'] side. They need you," said Kallist.
It's a day filled with monumental, moving moments, smiles, and cheers, which has been a part of a tradition in Brookline for decades.
Parade organizers said planning for the 91st Memorial Day parade will start as early as October.