Veterans Day: Pittsburgh marks century of tradition with downtown parade
Historic vehicles and marching bands filled the streets as the city honored its military service members ahead of the national holiday.
By Renata Mehta ·
Residents lined the sidewalks of downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday to watch a procession that has operated since 1919. The event, one of the longest running in the United States, moved along Grant Street and onto the Boulevard of the Allies. Participants included veterans, motorcycle riders, and drivers of restored military vehicles.
Patricia Blazewick, 81, of White Hall, held two American flags while waiting for the march to begin. She was there to surprise her husband, a Vietnam War veteran who marched with a fellow group. Blazewick noted that the conflict was controversial when it ended, making current recognition more meaningful. "They sacrificed a lot for our country," she said. "It does deserve some acknowledgement."
Don Grimm, 72, of Washington, drove a black 1937 Buick Century as part of the First Frontier Mechanized Cavalry. The group preserves military vehicles and participated to honor those who served. Mark Matuszak also drove a World War II era Jeep that his father, a veteran of that war, had passed down to him. Matuszak said the display aims to show how much veterans mean to the community. "It’s a tribute to those people," he said.
Tom Beck, 31, of Avella, served in the Air Force and serves as sergeant at arms for the local chapter of the Freedom Fighters Veterans Motorcycle Club. He attends the parade nearly every year to support the local veteran community. "Our big focus is brotherhood and bringing the veteran community together," Beck said. "We’re here for the local veterans."
Mykhailo Stasiv, 35, of Bridgeville, attended the parade for the first time after finding it online while looking for weekend activities. He moved to the United States from Ukraine a few years ago. "It’s important to acknowledge for everybody," Stasiv said.
Marion Wilson, 70, of West Mifflin, attended to support her two grandchildren who play in the Penn Hills High School marching band. She wore a pin with their pictures. Wilson also attended to honor those who served ahead of Veterans Day on Wednesday. "We wouldn’t be where we are without them," she said.
