Park Ridge Memorial Day Parade Celebrates Tradition and Community

Families gathered along Cumberland Avenue in Park Ridge, waving flags and anticipating candy and entertainment at the annual Memorial Day Parade on May 25. The event, held for 103 years, began as a solemn day to honor soldiers who died in the Civil War by cleaning and decorating their graves. Today, it has evolved into a community celebration for many small towns.

American Legion Commander and Alderperson Joseph Steinfels highlighted the parade’s origins during his speech near the World War II memorial at the South Park Recreation Center. He reminded the audience that the Civil War claimed about two percent of the American population. “Everybody felt the pain,” Steinfels stated, describing Memorial Day as a way for the country to heal. Although modern warfare does not impact every community as deeply, he emphasized the importance of remembering those who served and sacrificed.

Participants in the parade, like Larry Smaha and Mike Roach, focus on this mission. Roach, a Vietnam combat veteran, drove his 1996 Mustang convertible with signs honoring Vietnam Combat Veterans. He aims to raise awareness about free burials available for veterans at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery, a picturesque site by the lakefront. Roach has participated in three parades to spread this message, highlighting the financial relief it provides to veterans and their families.

The American Legion in Park Ridge hosted a grave remembrance ceremony two days before the parade. However, Memorial Day itself featured community members reuniting, enjoying conversations under oak trees, and sharing coffee while watching the parade with their children. Andrew and Emily Maratea, residents of Park Ridge for two years, appreciate the community’s spirit. “(Park Ridge) has a sense of community,” Andrew shared, recalling the isolated living in Chicago before returning to his hometown. Emily added, “We live two blocks away, and we look forward to it every year.”