The East Moriches community will once again gather on Main Street this November for its annual Veterans Day Parade, a tradition that has grown into one of the area’s most cherished events.
Leading the procession this year will be Grand Marshal Ina Casali, a Vietnam-era U.S. Navy Veteran and longtime advocate for service members and their families. Casali, who resides in Moriches, comes from a proud lineage of military Veterans and has dedicated decades of her life to supporting others who served.
After her military service, Casali spent 32 years teaching at Suffolk County Community College, where she mentored student Veterans and encouraged them to get involved in local organizations. She has been a leader in the Suffolk County Women Veterans Peer Support group and served on the Military Women Veterans Advisory Board.
Her work has extended beyond the classroom and boardroom. Casali helped organize Veteran-focused fundraisers, participated in school programs honoring service members, and most recently spearheaded a project making pillows for breast cancer survivors. She has also been featured in USA War Stories and other news outlets for her ongoing contributions.
“Ina embodies the spirit of this parade—service, sacrifice, and community,” said parade organizer Miriam Gillies. “She’s not only a Veteran herself but someone who has lifted up countless others through her mentorship and compassion.”
The parade, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches, will feature the Center Moriches High School Band, local fire departments, Scout troops, civic organizations, and elected officials. The November 9 event will begin with a ceremony at the Eagle Monument on Main Street at 2 p.m. and conclude at Soldiers and Sailors Park.
Since its founding in 2018, the parade has honored those who served in America’s armed forces while strengthening the bonds of community in East Moriches.