On Monday, May 31st, the St. Charles community came out to show its respect and admiration for veterans that have given so much to protect our freedom and way of life. The events included decoration of gravesites at 3 area cemeteries, a parade down Main Street, and a post-parade ceremony.
A large and enthusiastic crowd attended the parade to show their support and appreciation for veterans. Unfortunately, rain forced many of them to miss the ceremony that was relocated to the apparatus bay of Fire Station #1 by inclement weather.
The events are organized by a group of community volunteers with the support of several organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #5036, American Legion Post #342, local boy scout troops, City of St. Charles, Tri-Cities Exchange Club, and St. Charles Jaycees. Commitee members include Mark Powell, Betsy Penny, Sarah Giachino, Beth Mund, Mike Taylor, Laurie Milbourn, Steve Martin, Doug Walsh, Charlie Brown, and Brian Townsend.
Here are some images from Memorial Day in St. Charles:
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- Chris Johnson, a veteran who recently returned home.
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- Tyler Jones, a veteran who recently returned home.
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- Warrior Watch entering the parade route.
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- A view of the parade on Main Street.
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- Landmark Drill Team.
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- A view of the parade on Main Street.
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- The crowd gathers in the apparatus bay of Fire Station #1.
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- Congressman Bill Foster and Jonathon Monken with area veterans.
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- Jonathon Monken delivering the keynote address.
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- Singing the national anthem.
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- The color guard and local veterans leading the parade.
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- Spectators lined up on Main Street at Lincoln Park.
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- The marching band from St. Charles North.
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- Pat Boyle & Laurie Milbourn before the parade.
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- Singing the National Anthem.
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- Mayor DeWitte, Congressman Foster, and VFW Commander Mark Powell listen to Jonathon Monken, Director of Illinois State Police.
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- Local veterans enjoy themselves before the parade.
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- The color guard and local veterans line up for the parade.
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- A view of the parade route on Main Street.
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- A view of the parade down Main Street.
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- Mayor DeWitte, City Council, and Jonathon Monken on the parade route.
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- The St. Charles East marching band.
