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By: Brendan McDonough

Reporter for North Tonawanda

It was a little smaller than years past, but many say it was still the best way to celebrate Memorial Day. Up and down Payne Avenue people to all ages lined up to enjoy the annual parade. From bands to fire trucks there a little bit of something for everyone.

“The parade really brings the community together, people get out of their houses and really enjoy it,” said Rochelle Lolo, North Tonawanda Resident.

This year’s parade honors the 100^th anniversary of Armistice Day, which ended WWI. For many attending the parade is an annual tradition. “I always come, my husband was a marine. My son is a marine currently. I always come for the parade, “says Kathy Gilmore, North Tonawanda Resident.

Others say they hope the parade help to educate their kids and grandkids about the men and women, who did so much. Debbie Stones is at the parade with her young grandson. “Even at school, he knows that his dad was in the Army, he knows that his uncle Rusty got killed fighting the war. He has saluted and appreciate the service, so we can have the life that that we have and that is what I tell him all the time,” said Stones, North Tonawanda Resident.

An important event for both young and old to enjoy and remember.

“I think it is important that we have it, we need to have a tribute for the Veterans every year. This year it was a little shorter, but I think it still served its purpose. It’s nice to see all the Veterans, as well as their families and resident’s out there,” said Art Pappas, Mayor of North Tonawanda.

The parade went down Payne Avenue and ended at Brauer Park, next to Tonawanda City Hall.