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WILKES-BARRE — The present and the past came together on Sunday at the annual Wyoming Valley Veteran’s Day Parade, as one of the valley’s most honored traditions returned to Market Street.
The parade started on the Kingston side of the Market Street Bridge, before making its way across the bridge and down to Public Square.
Onlookers lined the sidewalks to pay homage to the men and women of the Armed Forces, who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of freedom by fighting overseas and at home.
Some veterans themselves paid tribute to the men and women, while others just sought to pay their respects and say “thank you for your service.”
“It’s a time where people should get out and respect the military for what they do,” said Richard Krokos, a veteran who has been involved with the parade for more than 50 years. Krokos served with the reserve Air Force corps from 1964 to 1970.
Krokos’ sentiment was echoed by many on Sunday, as everyone came out to pay their respects to the fine men and women of the military.
The parade was led by Grand Marshal John Paul Karopvich, a master sergeant in the Army National Guard who has also been involved with the parade for many years. Karpovich, a resident of Hunlock Creek, serves on the Wyoming Valley Veteran’s Day Parade Committee.
This year’s parade honored non-commissioned officers and chief petty officers that have served our country.
Many turned out with young children in tow, perhaps introducing their children for the first time to the men and women in uniform. Flags waved and people cheered as the parade crossed the bridge.
Kameron Wenk, a member of the Air Force ROTC at Wilkes University, was on hand to videotape and photograph the event. Wenk’s grandfather and great grandfather served in the Armed Forces, and Wenk hopes to follow in their footsteps.
“It’s an honor to serve, and to honor our veterans,” said Wenk.
Also in attendance at Sunday’s parade were the members of the Wilkes-Barre Area Wolfpack marching band, as well as the Wyoming Valley Pipe and Drum Band.
“We’ve been doing this parade since its inception,” said Raymond Cannell, the drum major for the band. “I retired after 23 years of service, and my son currently serves.”
Veteran’s Day celebrates and remembers the armistice that stopped the fighting in World War I back in 1918, 101 years ago on Nov. 11.
Each year on that day, Americans solemnly remember those who served and those who gave their lives.
“Veteran’s day to me is the day to remember and honor those who have given their lives and sacrificed for this great nation,” Cannell said.
