Park Ridge Memorial Day Parade: Honoring Tradition and Community

Cumberland Avenue in Park Ridge saw families gathered along the streets waving small flags eagerly anticipating the city’s annual Memorial Day Parade on May 25. Park Ridge has been paying tribute to those fallen in war for 103 years. Initially, Memorial Day was solely a day to honor the dead and tend to the graves of Civil War casualties.

During the event, American Legion Commander and Alderperson Joseph Steinfels addressed the crowd near the World War II memorial at the South Park Recreation Center. Steinfels spoke of the solemn origins of Memorial Day, noting the Civil War killed about two percent of the American population. ‘Everybody felt the pain,’ he stated. ‘Memorial Day started as the way the country could heal.’ Steinfels acknowledged the change in impact of modern warfare on communities, stressing the importance of remembering those who died in service. ‘Today we celebrate those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, who answered the call and never came back,’ he emphasized.

Among the parade participants, Larry Smaha and Mike Roach took part, driving Roach’s 1996 Mustang convertible, which proudly displayed magnet signs honoring Vietnam Combat Veterans. Roach, himself a combat veteran, explained his intent is not tied to any group but dedicated to remembering Vietnam servicemen. Additionally, he seeks to inform veterans about the free burial services available at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery by Lakefront. ‘They offer free burial for veterans and their spouse,’ Roach noted, highlighting the relief from funeral expenses. ‘If you want full honors, you can request full honors.’

Two days before the parade, the Park Ridge American Legion conducted a grave remembrance ceremony. Memorial Day in Park Ridge largely involves spending time with neighbors under the shade of oak trees, sipping coffee, and catching up on the sidewalk.

Emily and Andrew Maratea, a local family, joined the celebrations. The Marateas have been residing in Park Ridge for two years, with Andrew having grown up in the town before moving to Chicago. ‘Park Ridge has a sense of community,’ he remarked. ‘We were living in the city, and everyone lived 45 minutes away from each other. It’s nice to just walk out and enjoy a parade with your neighbors.’ Emily added, ‘We live two blocks away, and we look forward to it every year.’

Jesse Wright is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.