Fallen service members honored at annual Memorial Day Parade downtown

CHICAGO — Thousands lined State Street on Saturday to see Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade, an annual event that dates back to World War II.

The people of Chicago and visitors from across the country gathered to honor the memory of those who have laid down their lives to protect others.

“It is gorgeous. Sunny, beautiful. Everybody’s smiling,” Heather Herring, who is visiting from New York, said.

Herring is among the many out-of-towners who lined up for the parade. The first-time visitor to Chicago said she was inspired to see waves of ROTC students marching on Memorial Day.

“I’m so happy to see the young people out because we have to pass it on to the next generation,” Herring said.

Colonel Lorenzo Eason, who served for 34 years and is currently the Director of Military Instruction for Chicago Public Schools, was among the many veterans who attended Saturday’s event.

“I’m having a great time. I love watching the cadets in action,” Col. Eason said.

At the wreath-laying ceremony before the parade, people gathered at the Eternal Flame Memorial in Daley Plaza.

“Thank you all for your service and sacrifices,” Congresswoman and Purple Heart veteran Tammy Duckworth, who spoke at the ceremony, said.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson honored the sacrifice made by loved ones, including Illinois Gold Star Families like Olivia Doherty and her son Bryson, who came to remember Doherty’s brother, Nicolas A. Daniels, who lost his life in Afghanistan on November 20, 2011.

“Chicago gives a lot of support and honestly, whenever we need someone to talk to they’re here,” Doherty said.

The grand marshal for Saturday’s parade was Rear Admiral Zeita Merchant, a Chicago native and the first African-American woman promoted to flag rank in the US Coast Guard.

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