Red, white and blue were the colors of the day as Forest Hills residents packed Metropolitan Avenue on Sunday, May 25, waving American flags and donning patriotic gear for the neighborhood’s annual Memorial Day Parade.
From toddlers in star-spangled hats to veterans in full uniform, the community showed up in force to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The event, organized by American Legion Continental Post #1424, began with an 11 a.m. ceremony followed by a noon march, featuring veterans, local organizations, elected officials and Fleet Week participants.
For more than six decades, the parade has served as a solemn and patriotic tradition in Central Queens, honoring those who gave their lives in service. “Our community has a proud history of supporting our veterans,” said Commander Michael Arcati of Post #1424. “Each year, we march not only to remember the fallen, but to ensure that their sacrifice is never forgotten.”
This year’s parade coincided with several key anniversaries in military history, including the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, the 110th anniversary of the U.S. Coast Guard, the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and the 75th anniversary of the start of the Korean War.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, who addressed the crowd during the ceremony, reflected on the generations of veterans who shaped the freedoms enjoyed today. “The only reason I can put my kids to bed safe every single night is because men and women are still fighting across this world to make sure that we are safe at home,” she said.
Elected leaders praised the event for uniting the community while reinforcing civic values. “Freedom isn’t free,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. “We have to do everything we can to preserve our democracy… [Service members] fought and died on behalf of us for the greatest nation on the face of this earth.”
U.S. Rep. Grace Meng emphasized the importance of remembering all veterans, especially those who paid the ultimate price. “They stood in battle as they lay in burial, united,” she said. “They were people from all backgrounds… who dedicated their lives to something greater than themselves.”
Meng also noted that Queens is home to the largest veteran population of any borough in New York City, and shared updates on bipartisan efforts in Congress to expand VA home loan eligibility and improve access to care for veterans exposed to toxic burn pits.
State Sen. Joseph Addabbo, a member of the Senate’s Veterans Committee, echoed the sentiment. “While we take a moment today to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, please join me in thanking the veterans who are here with us today,” he said.
Over 60 Queens organizations participated in the march, including school bands, scouting troops, cultural associations, and military groups. Local volunteers, including veterans and their families, helped raise funds to support the event, which is privately funded by Post #1424. The Legion is working to raise $20,000 to cover parade costs.
Donations can still be made via americanlegionpost1424.com or by mail to Continental Post #1424, Inc., 107-15 Metropolitan Avenue, Forest Hills, NY 11375.
“We march to remember. We march for those who can’t,” Arcati said. “And we hope the next generation will do the same.”
