Military servicemen and women remembered at Blawnox Memorial Day parade and service

Blawnox paid homage to the fallen military men and women with a parade and service May 27.

Organizers estimate about 200 people lined up along Freeport Road from the Sunoco gas station to the recently refurbished war memorial in remembrance.

About 20 groups participated in the parade, including marching bands, veterans and folks with classic and antique cars, local fire and police departments, as well as those in festive costumes.

Councilwoman Katie Specht-Coban served as parade marshal.

A service took place at the war memorial near the intersection of Freeport Road and North Avenue.

Mayor Anthony Gross and some local legislators gave speeches and offered gratitude for those who served and continue to serve the country.

The war memorial was resurfaced and pressure-washed earlier this year. A veteran brick project is ongoing.

The bricks have the name of a soldier, military branch, service years and, if space allows, commendations such as a Purple Heart and other medals.

Nearly 40 were installed just in time for Memorial Day.

“It really made us feel like we put some new blood into it,” Specht-Coban said. “(The day) was amazing. It humbles us.”

Volunteers served hotdogs and other foods toward the end of the festivities.