Despite facing torrential downpours and gloomy skies, participants of the Village of Montgomery’s annual St. Pat’s Ramble marched proudly through the village street, shining their shades of green through the rain.

This tradition started in 2013 by a non-profit organization of the same name, whose members raise money through various fundraisers to support the village’s needs. The committee previously hosted a 5K run along with the parade, but the former was scrapped beginning this year.

Between 1:15 p.m. and 1:45 p.m., the marchers began walking from the Montgomery Elementary School, walked on Route 211 into the village, and dispersed after reaching the end of Clinton. Onlookers draped in coats and peering through windows cheered as they watched fire and utility trucks roll through, bands play music, veterans and first responders walk with pride, and passersby wave hello.

Leading the parade was Grand Marshal Darlene Andolsek, deputy mayor of the village, who was honored for her service to the community through volunteer and government work. Before the parade, she was honored on March 10 with a mass and cocktail reception at the Holy Name of Mary-Assumption Church and Ward’s Bridge Inn respectively. After reaching Clinton Street, Andolsek and her family sat in a special booth and watched the parade while keeping dry.