Kennett Square’s beloved, time-honored tradition marches on
By Kim Chiomento, News Editor, The Times
Marine First Sergeant and Kennett Square resident, Steven Hunter, walks the parade with son Alex
KENNETT SQUARE – Historic Kennett Square hosted its annual Memorial Day Parade Monday. With more than 1,000 participants, near perfect weather, and an estimated record attendance; the parade appeared to be a great success. This annual tradition is Chester County’s largest Memorial Day parade and enthusiastically honors US military veterans, past and present, in an idyllic hometown setting.
Iraq War Veteran and Avondale resident, Brad Erdmann, enjoys the parade with twin daughters Sophia (L) and Lina (R).
Marchers patiently waited in the staging area set-up surrounding Kennett High School with parade volunteers sending off participants with organized precision. World War II veterans Michael B. Pratola, Jr., Fred Patrola, Sr., and Robert Hopkins, Sr. were selected as this year’s parade Grand Marshals.
Landenberg’s Tim & Lori Beth Master enjoy the parade surrounded by their family and friends.
Crowds, young and old, packed borough streets to cheer them on; with many proudly waving flags and wearing red white and blue as their ‘uniform’ of the day. Veterans, floats, marching bands, athletic teams, scout troop, dancers and historical re-enactors all marched; underscoring the region’s rich military history, dedication to service and its diverse communities of today.
The Times salutes the generations of brave men and women who have fought, sacrificed and continue to serve; on behalf of all of our individual liberties. For additional parade photos and videos, please visit the The Times newsgroup’s FaceBook pages.
WWII Veterans Fred & Mike Pratola – two of the three parade Grand Marshals
WWII Veteran Robert J. Hopkins – one of the three parade Grand Marshals
