Charles "Charlie" Linkhorst, 79, of Lake Hauto, has been named grand marshal for the 2015 Tamaqua Veterans Day Parade, which is scheduled for this Saturday. The parade is sponsored by the Tamaqua American Legion, C.H. Berry Post 173.

Linkhorst enlisted in the U.S. Army when he was 17 and served in the Korean War. After his military stint, "Linkie" began a long career at the former Atlas Powder Company in Reynolds before retirement.In addition to being a 50-year member of the Tamaqua Legion, he is also a member of the Tamaqua Elks Lodge, the American Hose Company, Tamaqua Rifle Club, Tamaqua Moose and the West Penn Rod and Gun Club.Despite suffering two strokes and undergoing six bypass surgeries, Linkhorst stays active, crediting his wife of 58 years, Jean, for his longevity. They have three daughters, Debbie Linkhorst, Laurie Price and Chris King; two sons, Rich and Scott; nine grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.The parade will form in the east end of Tamaqua beginning at 9 a.m. at Lech's Transportation. The parade will begin with a rifle volley by the Legion Color Guard at the Tamaqua War Memorial located near the former Maff Motors. The line of march will then proceed at 10 a.m. west on Broad Street. The parade will end at the Broad and Lehigh Streets intersection.A brief service will then be held at the Tamaqua Legion Post, 206 W. Broad St.Also participating in the parade will be Ava Murray, 8, the 2015 Tamaqua Legion Poppy Queen.Parade organizers are encouraging everyone to be a part of the event by driving, riding or walking in the parade or by offering support along the sidewalks of Broad Street. Parking will be restricted along the route.No preregistration is required. For more information call 570-668-1234.