Merrick, N. Merrick to host joint Memorial Day parade

In 2005, hundreds of onlookers lined Merrick Avenue to see the procession, which encouraged parade organizers to once again host a joint parade.
This year, the grand marshal will be Col. Walter Rustman, doctor for the U.S. Air Force's 59th Air Medical Evacuation Group serving troops in Afghanistan and Iraq. Rustman is a former Merrick resident with many family members still living in the community.
The parade will be begin at 9:30 a.m. at Broadcast Plaza and Merrick Avenue, and head north on Merrick Avenue to the Veterans Monument just north of Camp Avenue. A brief wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the monument.
Community groups wishing to join the parade should assemble one hour before the start of the procession. Make sure to allow sufficient time to park and join with your group. Several streets will be closed near the Long Island Rail Road station at Broadcast Plaza.
For more information, contact the Merrick Fire Department chief's office at (516) 223-1501.