Harrison Remembers Fallen Servicemen With Memorial Day Parade

If you attempted to drive down Halstead Avenue this Memorial Day, you were likely diverted on account of a marching band, antique firetruck and handful of military jeeps.  

But it was for good reason: the town was festooned with patriotic décor this Memorial Day as residents—and plenty of out-of-towners—gathered for the annual Memorial Day parade.

"We come every year," said Anthony Granata of New Rochelle. "It's important to remember the servicemen who passed away protecting our rights and freedoms. They're why we're here today."

The parade began at 10 a.m. with a rendition of Taps. Participants then marched down Halstead Avenue, ending by the Honor Roll in Riis Park.

Servicemen from past and present wars turned out to honor the memory of fellow soldiers. Accompanying the veterans were Harrison High School's band, color guard and flag bearers. The Westchester Brassmen Senior Drum and Bugle Corp. were also in attendance.

For many, the music is an additional draw.

"We look forward to every part of the parade, especially the band," said Joanna Remsen, a Harrison resident whose daughter was in the color guard. "The kids love it—we've been coming for years."

Frank Robinson, a Mahopac resident, has been traveling to Harrison for six years to participate in the Memorial Day parade. Robinson, a Master Chief Petty Officer in the Navy, served 33 years and in three wars.

"Everyone who has served has written a blank check to Uncle Sam," Robinson said. "It's important to remember those who paid with their lives."

After the march concluded, parade director and Korean War veteran Benjamin DeFonce climbed the stage adjacent to the Honor Roll monument to begin the speeches. DeFonce presented bouquets to Harrison's Fire Department and Police Department, led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, and thanked his fellow servicemen.

"I'm so proud to stand here in front of you," he said.

Supervisor/Mayor Joan Walsh spoke after DeFonce, recalling her experience with World War II.

"Five of my six uncles served in the war," Walsh said. "For so many, World War II is a movie or a chapter in a history book. For them, it was life."

"It's because of veterans, and not politicians, that we can vote," Walsh continued. "It's because of veterans, and not poets, that we have freedom of speech."

DeFonce, who has been organizing the parade for years, was pleased with the turnout.

"We have so many residents who came, and speeches from the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marines," he said. "I'm glad people are appreciating their veterans."