As they have since 1937, the residents of Center Moriches lined Main Street to view the Memorial Day Parade. Organized by VFW Post 414, the march ended at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery’s war memorial, where wreaths were laid to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
“For the men and women of the post, this is the most important day of the year,” said Commander Robert J. Galbraith. “We are lucky to be home while some did not return. That’s why it’s so important that we remember them.”
County Executive Ed Romaine and Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico, both Center Moriches residents, along with Suffolk Legislator Jim Mazzarella, showed their respect. They noted the service of Lou Baer, a Vietnam veteran who’s been organizing the parade for the last 45 years.
Among the participants were the Center Moriches High School Band, local fire departments and ambulance companies, scouts, Little League ball players, Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches, Moriches Bay Garden Club, and area businesses and service organizations.