William “Uncle Bill” Sommers, 91, of Owl Creek Road, Tamaqua, has been selected as the grand marshal for the 2016 Tamaqua Veterans Day Parade. The parade, sponsored by the Tamaqua American Legion, C.H. Berry Post 173, will be held this Saturday.

Participants will meet at Lech’s Transportation on East Broad Street at 9 a.m. The Tamaqua Legion Color Guard will start the observance with a rifle volley at the Tamaqua War Memorial. The parade itself will begin at 10 a.m. and head west on Broad Street. A brief service will be held at the Legion post home, 206 W. Broad St.Sommers is a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1947. Following his military stint, “Uncle Bill” worked for American Brake Shoes (ABEX), Atlas Powder Company and LC&N Coal in Nesquehoning.His wife of 55 years, the former Myrtle Bennage, passed away in 2003.A dedicated member of the Tamaqua American Legion for 68 years, Sommers has also been member of the East End Fire Company since 1983; is a longtime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars; Catholic War Vets; Knights of Columbus; and former member of the Tamaqua Elks Lodge. He retired from the Tamaqua Fire Police in 2014 after a lifelong commitment to volunteerism and community involvement.“I like hanging out with all the guys and gals. I really enjoyed it,” said Sommers, referring to his memories and friends. He continues to enjoy time with friends and family, as well as his companion of 10 years, Kay Jennings.Also participating in the parade will be Caitlyn Kovatch, the 2016 Tamaqua Legion Poppy Queen.Parade organizers encourage everyone to be a part of the event by driving, riding or walking in the parade or by offering support along the sidewalks on Broad Street. Parking will be restricted along the route.No preregistration is required. For more information call 570-668-1234.