UNIONTOWN - On Nov. 12, the residents of Fayette County have an opportunity to watch and participate in a parade here to honor those who have served or are serving in the military and to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice- their lives for the freedom of others.
The annual Fayette County Veterans Day parade will be held in Uniontown on Monday, Nov. 12, rather than on Sunday, Nov. 11 (Veterans Day), because of a scheduling conflict, according to Mike Gaydos, commander of American Legion Post 51 in Uniontown.
The Uniontown post is hosting this year's parade which rotates through Masontown, Connellsville and Uniontown.
Gaydos said the parade was to be held on Sunday but was moved a day later after people in the community and churches indicated there were conflicts involving church services and community activities.
Gaydos said the change in scheduling should not deter organizations and residents from participating in the parade. He reported that participation in this year's parade appears to be down, possibly because of a forecast predicting inclement weather or the costs associated with a school district busing the band members to the parade site.
Some of the organizations scheduled to participate in Monday's parade are: Different veterans' organizations, the Fayette County Sheriff's Department and its Search and Rescue squad, U.S. Army recruiters, fire departments, Lafayette Junior High Band and Laurel Highlands Senior High Band, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the state Department of Transportation.
"A lot of people will show up. We get latecomers (to the parade). They will participate," said Gaydos, a veteran of the Vietnam War era.
Gaydos said that any organization wishing to participate in the parade may call the post at 724-438-8041.
The parade steps off at 10:45 a.m. Line-up begins at 10 a.m. at North Mount Vernon Avenue, proceeds down Main Street and passes the VFW Post 47 to North Gallatin Avenue where it ends at the post home.
Inside the legion, Gaydos will offer opening remarks then James Sileo, mayor of Uniontown, will be the guest speaker. Invocation will be given by Anthony F. Miller, chaplain of the United War Veterans of Uniontown, then all participants are invited for a luncheon.
The honor guard (representing all veterans organizations) will lead the parade. The honor guard will present arms and at 11 a.m., whether the parade is en route or in front of the post, the 21-gun salute will be given and "Taps" will be played by Pete Porreca of Uniontown VFW Post 47.
James R. Smith, chairman of Post 51 patriotism committee, said there is a new perception of patriotism in the wake of the terrorism attacks. While the definition of a veteran is one who has served in the Armed Services, Smith said this definition is expanded to include any person living in the past 100 years who has experienced war directly or indirectly.
"Especially now, with this Veterans Day parade, the emphasis on this parade is to honor all veterans, living or deceased, who have served our nation," said Smith.
On a more somber note, Gaydos said that the 850 American flags flying in the city on Main Street and other streets will be taken down shortly after Veterans Day. Gaydos reported that 50 flags have been lost through thefts and flag burning. He said the incidents have been reported in the east section of the city.
"Whether it takes place on Sunday or Monday, our patriotism should be high. We've shown that in Fayette County since Sept. 11," said Gaydos.
"People are reminded that it is the responsibility of the individual citizen to serve national interest when governmental policy and the Commander-in-Chief call for military vigilance or action," added Smith.
Gaydos indicated that the veterans organizations are attempting to raise funds to replace the lost flags. Donations can be directed to: American Legion Post 51 Flag Fund, Box 1069, Uniontown, Pa. 15401.
