The East Moriches community turned out in force last week for its annual Veterans Day Parade, a proud local tradition that honors the courage and sacrifice of America’s service members. This year’s Grand Marshal, U.S. Navy veteran Ina Casali, led the procession down Main Street, drawing cheers and applause from the flag-waving crowd.
The event was well attended by local officials, including County Executive Ed Romaine, Legislator Jim Mazzarella, Senator Dean Murray, Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, Brookhaven Supervisor Dan Panico, and Councilwoman Karen Dunne-Kesnig. The Center Moriches High School Band provided spirited marching music, performing selections from John Philip Sousa classics that echoed through the downtown.
Nearby fire departments, veterans groups, Scout troops, and civic organizations joined the procession, filling the street with red, white, and blue. The parade began with a solemn ceremony at the eagle statue on Main Street—a monument honoring those who served in the World Wars—and ended at Soldiers and Sailors Park.
County Executive Romaine praised the event as an example of unity and gratitude. “When you see the faces of our veterans, you’re reminded that freedom isn’t just a word—it’s a promise they kept for us,” he said. “This parade shows that the community remembers, respects, and still believes in the values they defended.”
Grand Marshal Casali, a Vietnam-era Navy veteran and longtime educator, has spent decades supporting fellow service members and their families. Her leadership and compassion have earned her respect across Suffolk County, and her selection as Grand Marshal was met with widespread applause and appreciation.
Sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce of the Moriches, the parade has grown steadily since its founding in 2018—uniting the community each November to honor all who served and to remind future generations that freedom must never be taken for granted, noted organizer Miriam Gillies.