One Of Philadelphia's Oldest Memorial Day Parades Marches Through Bridesburg
By Michelle Durham
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - One of the oldest Memorial Day parades in the city took place in Bridesburg.
The parade traditionally begins with a wreath laying ceremony at Holy Redeemer Cemetery. Richard Wyszynski is a key organizer of this parade, which has taken place since 1946. But, he says last year they came close to not holding the event due to lack of funds, but the community held fundraising drives.
"The word went out that it was not going to be there. People just came to the front, because this is Bridesburg."
For Sister Eileen Therese Przyblowski this parade means coming home for the day.
"I'm fourth generation here. It's coming back to my roots and enjoying the development, the expansion and the joy of people coming together, celebrating for our troops and our people who have died."
Reporter: "What do you want us to know about Bridesburg?"
Sister Przyblowski: "The people are great, the traditions are always celebrated and we're happy to have visitors."
For Amber, this parade takes on a special meaning as she watches with her four children, ages 5-13.
"This is our country. It means everything to us and they know, because their Dad is deployed right now to Afghanistan."
Bridesburg residents are also proud to mention how many veterans they have from their community and it dates back to the Civil War. John is with the 69th Pennsylvania Irish Volunteers, who marched in the parade.
"Actually, this regiment marched out of Bridesburg and Port Richmond. So, we're proud to be here after 150 years, we're still marching these streets."
Fran Fox with Trilby String Band says, "We do this every year and we love it! Because a happy Mummer is parading Mummer!"
