I grew up in the small town of Otsego in Western Michigan and the Memorial Day parade was a big event. Family and friends congregated at my parents for a 2-block walk with lawn chairs to reserve our corner where we knew many people including those in the parade itself. Growing up, I was in the parade a few times myself. Over the years I have often returned to find my mom and dad hosting a post parade gathering with a pot of coffee and rolls from the local bakery.
While parades and memories are fun, Memorial Day is really about remembering and honoring our veterans both current and past. It is a day to reflect on our freedom and our country—a day to appreciate the sacrifice that so many families have endured to protect the American people and democracy. The Memorial Day Parade in downtown Royal Oak Michigan did just that and rekindled my memories of what a local hometown event provides.
Royal Oak Memorial Day Parade from Cathy Tishhouse on Vimeo.
Beginning at Third Street toward a Remembrance Ceremony at Oakshire Cemetery, I arrived just in time to enjoy the Celtic Pipes and Drum Band as the parade progressed down Main Street. From little children waving them to over 50 people carrying a large one, flags were the main decoration for the parade while spectators clapped as the men in uniform and the military vehicles went by.
The final nostalgia (for me) was near the end when children (and adults) decorated their bikes and wagons with balloons, streamers and whirly gigs to participate in the parade. And I can’t forget to mention the Wahoo Vintage Baseball club of Royal Oak who marched in the parade and handed out candy. In our Otsego parade, everyone in the parade threw candy—from the men in the fire trucks to the groups of people, I always enjoyed watching my nieces and nephews scramble for candy. After all, we love our candy – and a good parade. Well done Royal Oak!
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Royal Oak Michigan Realtor selling Oakland County Real Estate. TishHouse sells Houses - selling Real Estate in Southeastern Michigan with RE/MAX Showcase Homes in Birmingham, Michigan. Helping People in a challenging market by specializing in Short Sales. See what my clients have to say about my extraordinary customer service. Follow me on Twitter.
