The communities of Ridgewood and Glendale came together on Monday, May 26, to honor fallen service members during the 87th annual Memorial Day Parade — a longstanding tradition that underscores both remembrance and civic pride.
Organized by the Allied Veterans Memorial Committee of Ridgewood & Glendale, the event paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while also recognizing the continued service of military veterans and active-duty personnel.
The parade stepped off at 11 a.m. along Cooper Avenue following a solemn opening ceremony that set the tone for the day. Marchers proceeded to Cypress Avenue, where the event concluded with a closing ceremony dedicated to honoring the memories of the nation’s fallen heroes.
The annual observance drew veterans, local leaders, community organizations, and residents, many of whom lined the streets waving flags and saluting participants as they passed.
Leading this year’s parade was Grand Marshal Robert Lohrey, followed by a line of vintage cars that evoked memories of past generations and paid tribute to the longstanding history of military service.
Behind the classic vehicles came the lively James Madison High School marching band, their music energizing the crowd and adding a celebratory tone to the solemn occasion.
Numerous local organizations participated in the parade, reflecting the community’s strong support for its veterans. Members of the Ridgewood Property Owners and Civic Association marched proudly behind their vehicle, showing their dedication to neighborhood involvement and civic responsibility.
Veterans and active service members received heartfelt applause as they walked in uniform, their presence a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and security.
The Kiwanis Club of Glendale added their voice to the tribute, followed by members of Community Board 5, including District Manager Gary Giordano. Troop 427 of the Boy Scouts marched in a tight formation, symbolizing the next generation of civic-minded Americans.
Emergency responders from Gotham Volunteer EMS and the Myrtle Avenue FDNY drove their ambulances and fire engines along the parade route, paying tribute to their fallen comrades and supporting the event with their presence.
Also present was Council Member Robert Holden, who marched side by side with his Deputy Chief of Staff and City Council candidate Alicia Vaichunas, reflecting a strong local government presence and continued political support for veterans and military families.
The parade culminated in Ridgewood with a powerful float that paid tribute to those who served and sacrificed. At the center of the float was a special recognition for Danny Wisotsky, a Marine Corps veteran who served for 22 years. Enlisting in 1979, Wisotsky served during Operation Desert Storm and rose through the ranks from enlisted Marine to warrant officer.
In 1995, he suffered serious injuries during a training accident, including crushed discs, a dislocated knee, and a torn rotator cuff. Despite these debilitating injuries, Wisotsky continued to serve for six more years until his retirement in 2001.
Mayor Eric Adams joined Grand Marshal Lohrey and other key figures on the float during the closing ceremony. In a patriotic speech, the mayor paid tribute to the bravery and commitment of those who serve.
“To any of those who say they don’t truly love America, and one poll said almost 52% don’t. I want to be clear: I’m one of the 48%. I still start the day pledging allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic on which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all,” Adams said.
“No matter what happens, we will survive. As our national anthem states: the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Our flag will always be here. Whether it’s the bomb of Covid, the bomb of inflation, the bomb of recession, no matter which bomb would strike our shore, we will still be here because of the men and women who stand in front of us today. They are our heroes, not only on Memorial Day but every day.”
The day ended with reflection, gratitude, and a shared commitment to never forget the courage and sacrifice of America’s service members.
For Ridgewood and Glendale, the Memorial Day parade is not just a tradition—it is a promise to honor those who gave everything for their country.
