Residents of Nesquehoning lined the streets on Monday morning for the annual Memorial Day parade.

The parade began at the recreation center, making two stops along the way at the town's monuments for wreath placement, prayer, firing squad and the playing of taps.The parade ended at the Nesquehoning VFW Post 8008, where a service was held."We stand in the midst of patriots," said Nesquehoning Mayor Sam Kitchko. "They were ordinary people who were called to do extraordinary things."The service's main speaker, Rick Ellis, talked about the difficulties of losing friends overseas and on 9/11."This day is not about me, it's about them," he said.Among those who gave remarks were Don Demarco of Post 8008; Edward Lucas, chaplain of Nesquehoning United Veterans Organization; Edward Coll, commander of the Nesquehoning American Legion Post 172; Ellen Driesbach, president of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary; and Lee Thear, commander of VFW Post 8008.The roll call of the deceased was conducted by Edward Lucas, who read a total of 27 names.The Nesquehoning UVO squad saluted all veterans.The benediction was read by Theodore Dacey, chaplain of the VFW Post 8008.Students of Panther Valley High School participated in the service as well.Colin Johnson, representing the JROTC, read the Gettysburg Address.Alyssa Bartelt read the poem "In Flanders Field," and Megan Heckman gave remarks on the voice of democracy.Kiley Boswell sang the national anthem, and the Panther Valley Marching Band played musical selections throughout the program.