The Tamaqua American Legion held its 145th annual Tamaqua Memorial Day Parade yesterday as hundreds of spectators lined the streets to watch the veterans pass by.

"It was an impressive turnout," said Ed Smith, incoming Commander, 13th District, PA American Legion. "The turnout for Tamaqua's annual Memorial Day parade and service was the highest that it has been in recent memory."Led by the Tamaqua C.H. Berry Post 173 of the American Legion, the parade consisted of the Tamaqua Fire Department, several rescue units, several scout groups, Tamaqua Raider Marching Band and Marian High School marching band, as well as other civic organizations.George A "Geo" Millet served as Grand Marshal of the parade. Millet is a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and has been a proud member of the Tamaqua American Legion, C.H. Berry Post 173, for 45 years. After receiving infantry training at Camp Croft in South Carolina, Millet served with the US Occupation Forces in Germany, as a member of the 3112th Signal Service Battalion.Following the parade and service at the Odd Fellows Cemetery, American Legion members held a Memorial Day service at the AMVETS and American Legion memorials located outside the post. Several dozen people attended the ceremony. Post Commander Larry Kabana commented on the importance of turning out for the parade and supporting the veterans.Both Smith and Jon Zizelmann stated their appreciation to all who took the time Monday morning to support our veterans."I am so grateful for all our veterans that have dedicated their life to protect us," said resident Diane Fudge. "This parade gets better every year."