APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A Memorial Day tradition took place in Appleton Monday, honoring the brave people who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The city annually honors the community’s fallen heroes.
On Monday, people from all over the Fox Valley gathered around the streets of downtown Appleton for the Memorial Day Parade and “Moment of Remembrance” Ceremony.
“Over time, this holiday has become a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of American service people in a commitment to preserve and protect and defend our way of life,” said Appleton Mayor Jake Woodford.
This stately event annually draws hundreds of participants and thousands of spectators to the city of Appleton.
“I always come to this parade, I never miss it,” said Appleton resident Cyd Olson. “My husband marches in it. He’s a retired firefighter.”
Olson has been coming to the city’s Memorial Day parade for over 20 years.
“I had four brothers in the military, my father, my father-in-law and my son,” Olson said. “So, this means a lot to me — it brings tears to my eyes.”
The parade starts on College Avenue and ends at Riverside Cemetery, which is where the “Moment of Remembrance” ceremony takes place immediately after.
“That amount of women and men that have given their life amounts to over one million in all the wars that the United States have been involved in,” said Bob Johnson with Appleton American Legion Post 38.
“It’s a really important day to honor the people who allow us to live the way that we live and have freedom,” said Appleton resident Lauren Nelsen.
This is the first time Nelsen and her children are attending Appleton’s Memorial Day Parade. They moved to the area from Neenah two years ago.
“We were able to walk here, so that’s amazing,” said Nelsen.
Nelsen has many family members and friends that are, or have been, in the military.
“I had all my uncles — I think all three or four uncles — and a couple cousins and, of course, many friends,” said Nelsen. “So, I think it’s a pretty honorable thing that they’re doing that a lot of citizens don’t do.”
And Nelsen and her kids say they’re excited to come back again next year.
“Excited to celebrate and honor those who take care of us,” said Nelsen.
Appleton’s Flag Day Parade is coming up June 10th.
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