Memorial Day weekend saw parades and celebrations all throughout the Hudson Valley. On Sunday May 29, people gathered to celebrate Memorial Day on either side of Main Street in Milton. American flags were waving, along with red, white and blue wardrobes flooding downtown. The theme of this year’s parade was “Welcome Home Veterans,” and it ran from SonoTek, (Milton Industrial Park) to Cluett Schantz Memorial Park on Route 9W.

Planned by the Viebey-Sutton Post 124 American Legion, this year’s Memorial Day parade saw floats and attractions provided by several local organizations and businesses.

“Everybody should be doing something like this. Memorial Day is really something special. Especially when it’s a great turnout like this,” said Veteran Joe Maloney, who served our country in the early 1960’s on the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt CVA 42 aircraft carrier.

Just a few of the participants in the parade include: Ancient Order of Hibernias Father Con Colbert Woulfe Division No. 1, Milton Engine Company No.1, Marlboro Ladies Auxiliary, Sarah Hull Hallock Library, Marlboro Democratic and Conservative Committees, Cub Scout Pack 73, Madeline’s Dance Studio, and the Marlboro High School Marching Band.

After arriving at Cluett Schantz park, a ceremony was held to honor our fallen veterans, and refreshments were available for everyone. Several Ulster County officials were present, and spoke about their gratitude, in addition to explaining how important Memorial Day is.

“This was such a special and prideful event. We need to spread this energy and emanate it throughout the country. All Americans should understand the importance of this day,” said Ulster County Executive Pat Ryan.

“After three years without a parade, thanks to the pandemic and a rainy day, finally we are gathered here to honor all of our men and women in the military. This weekend isn’t about BBQ’s and the start of summer, although there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s really about remembrance, and how we can never forget the ultimate sacrifice those veterans made, and still make,” said Town of Marlborough Supervisor Scott Corcoran.

President of the Marlborough Historical Society and Veteran Tom Schroeder presented awards to floats in the parade that were the most eye-catching. Best original float was one by Marlboro Youth Baseball. The best themed float award belonged to Marlboro Elementary School, and the best in show award belonged to the Marlboro Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts.
The ceremony was concluded with a playing of TAPS, and a 21 gun salute to honor and remember the Veterans who couldn’t be here today.

On Monday May 30 at 9 a.m., The American Legion Post 124 saluted the Veteran monuments in Marlboro and Milton, continuing to honor and show remembrance.