Memorial Day parades return to Pittsburgh area after 2-year hiatus due to COVID-19

PITTSBURGH — After a two-year hiatus because of the pandemic, Memorial Day parades in and around Pittsburgh were back in full swing.

Many communities celebrated Memorial Day with big parades. The last two years, these events were scaled back due to COVID. But towns like Aspinwall were not holding back and veterans really appreciated it.

“To see this many people come out and support our veterans is really nice,” said veteran William Jakovac.

Jakovac was really happy to see everyone who came out in support.

“It’s really fantastic. We haven’t had a parade for two years,” said Jakovac.

Many people in area communities like downtown Butler and Lawrenceville came together to honor the brave servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“For me, it’s surreal and very humbling. I once stood on the battlefield in rage when we loaded up our fellow conrads to come home on the plane, so standing here knowing that could have been me was a very somber experience,” said veteran Chazz Burke.

Channel 11 spoke with a woman who’s been attending Aspinwall’s Memorial Day parade for 62 years. She shared why it was so important for her to attend every year.

“I’ve had brothers in the war. My husband served in the war. My brother-in-law was badly injured in the Korean War,” said Sally Lodge.

Hundreds of people lined the streets Monday for the parades. An area veteran says the holiday is all about honoring and remembering those who died serving our country and hopes more can be done for veterans who may be struggling.

“I don’t think people really recognize the struggles that veterans go through. It’s a constant battle with mental health, physical health and everything in between,” said Burke.

There are services to help area veterans. For more information: https://wpxi.tv/3N0oQMl

RAW: Memorial Day tribute in Mount Lebanon RAW web Mt Lebanon Memorial Day service

©2022 Cox Media Group