The Hammond Veterans Parade and Ceremony celebrated its 12th anniversary on a crisp fall Saturday.
The event attracted hundreds of people who lined up along the parade route in south Hammond.
“I come here every year,” said Barbara Garcia of Hammond, who was one of the first to arrive. “We definitely need to pay tribute to all of our veterans and their sacrifices.”
Garcia knows what she's talking about because her husband died from injuries sustained in the service.
“We widows are very grateful to Hammond for sponsoring this event and to the community for participating.”
Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr., a Navy veteran, made the decision a decade ago to highlight in his community those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
According to one parade attendee, the decision has benefited many families in many ways.
“I can’t tell you how happy my family is to come here every year,” said Don Helford of Dyer. “When I grew up in this area, we had parades and events, but never anything like this. I have parents, uncles and brothers in my family who served, so it's great that today we can honor every member of the family.”
The parade featured floats from local American Legions and VFW organizations, the Bishop Noll High School marching band, military equipment and others.
The Lima flight crew's demonstration also excited the crowd.
After the parade concluded, a short ceremony was held at the Veterans Memorial in Hessville Park.
Among those present were the Greylor family.
Jim and Sherry Graylor of Chicago were visiting family in Hammond. When they heard about the parade and ceremony, they were eager to go.
“No place we've ever lived had a program for veterans like this one,” Jim Graylor said as he sat down near the stage. “It’s so nice that so many veterans are forgotten – this is a wonderful way to keep their memories alive.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
