Crowds Brave Cold for 66th Veterans Day Parade in Media, PA

UPDATE: Thousands braved the bitter cold to honor veterans at the 66th Veterans Day Parade in Media, Pennsylvania, this past November 11, 2023. Despite temperatures plummeting to 35 degrees, the community turned out in droves to pay tribute to those who served.

The parade featured the esteemed Ed Buffman, a 100-year-old Navy veteran of World War II, serving as the grand marshal. Buffman, a member of the ‘Greatest Generation’, drew admiration from both the crowd and fellow service members.

“I can’t hold a candle to that,”

said Bill West, a retired Army servicemember.

The event, organized by the U.S. Veterans Legacy Project, showcased a vibrant display of classic cars, Corvettes carrying veterans, and six bands performing patriotic music. A group of Vietnam veterans led the parade on motorcycles, receiving heartfelt appreciation from the crowd.

“It does mean a lot,”

said Chuck Holland of Vietnam Vets USA.

“We’re grateful for all the thank-yous and just glad to be home safe.”

Attendees expressed deep emotional connections to the day. Alisha McKinzie, who traveled from New Castle, Delaware, stated,

“Even though it’s freezing cold out here, this is nothing compared to what they went through.”

Many came to honor loved ones, including Alicia Sabre, who shared,

“This is emotional for us because my husband just died in June.”

As the parade unfolded, a somber reminder echoed through the crowd: the importance of passing on this tradition. Pat Bennett of Claymont, Delaware, lamented,

“Years ago, this street was lined, two deep, three deep. Each year, it gets a little less, and it’s just sad.”

Buffman emphasized the need to educate younger generations about the sacrifices of veterans.

“That’s what we want to do; bring up history,”

he remarked. “That’s what we are. Living history.”

As Media, PA, continues to honor its veterans, the hope remains that future generations will uphold this cherished tradition. The heartwarming display of gratitude, despite the weather, serves as a powerful reminder of the community’s commitment to remembering those who served.