I wanted to teach my children the meaning of Memorial Day in a way that they could understand.  It's hard to wrap your head around war and death at 3.  So, my husband and I took the kids to the Lansingburgh Veterans Memorial Day Parade.

It's the 18th annual modern parade.  Before that, a 19 year hiatus.  I'm glad they brought it back for all of us to enjoy!

We all had a great time!  Troy and Lansingburgh are such patriotic communities and you could tell by the proud folks marching in the parade and the hundreds of people lined up on the parade route!

The parade’s grand marshal this year was veteran Timothy Forbes, who actively served in the Marines from 1974 to 1977.  Forbes is a respected local veteran, and a member of the veterans of Lansingburgh, among many other associations.

The role of honorary grand marshal was filled by Troy native and resident, Thomas Dougherty, a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Our favorite float was the Freedom Express Memorial - so moving to see the casket covered in a flag with the names of local fallen heroes.

My kids asked so many questions and learned so much by watching representatives from each branch of the military and veterans from several wars march past us.

And even though they're little, they could still feel the sense of pride we all had for our men and women in uniform.

It was so great to be a part of the crowd as we waived and cheered for our servicemen and servicewomen.  And so important for us to take a few minutes to become overwhelmed with emotion as we think of our heroes who didn't make it home.

To the parade committee in Lansingburgh - Great job on putting together such a nice parade!

To the participants - Thanks for coming out to show your spirit!  It was contagious!

To our servicemen and servicewomen and their families- Thanks for all you do!

Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
loading...
Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
loading...
Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
loading...
Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
Memorial Day Parade 2014, Photo by Bethany
loading...

More From 107.7 WGNA