PITTSBURGH,None — A Memorial Day parade attracted hundreds at the Allegheny Cemetery Soldier's Memorial on Monday in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood.
The 73rd Memorial Day Parade was emotional for some as it unfolded along Butler Street, Channel 11 News reporter Alan Jennings said.
Filling the streets were soldiers and marching bands, honoring those wounded and those who gave their lives for our freedom.
The crowds lined both sides of the street, cheering and clapping and remembering the great sacrifices.
VIDEO: Parade Held Allegheny Cemetery Soldier's Memorial VIDEO: Brentwood, Zelienople Hold Memorial Day Parade, Ceremonies
"Every year since 1953, I've been in this parade every year until the last five years," said World War II veteran Oakley McGriff. "I'm 90 years old."
Former U.S. Marine and current Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner was an unsuspecting guest at the parade. Wagner lost in the primary for his bid to run for governor.
"Once a Marine, always a Marine," said Wagner. "Today is Memorial Day, a very special day where we honor those who gave their lives for our country. They had a very special ceremony here at Allegheny and St. Mary's Cemetery with literally hundreds of people, and I was honored to be part of it."
Several other Memorial Day events took place Monday.
The parade in Brentwood started at a local church with the Brentwood High School marching band performing along the way.
A wreath was laid and a ceremony was held to remember veterans.
"We honor our veterans. They gave us our freedom," said Toney Denk, of Brentwood.
Many living in the borough told Channel 11 News they've been coming to the Memorial Day parade for at least half a century.
A ceremony was also held Monday morning at Harmony Square, which included a wreath-laying and the playing of "Taps," with the American Legion participating.
Graveside services were held at the Harmony and Zelienople cemeteries.
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