Remembering those who died serving their country

Thousands honor military veterans during Memorial Day parade

Posted Tuesday, May 31, 2011 12:00 am

U.S. Army veterans Matt Probeyahn, who served in Vietnam, and Jospeh Brown at the parade.

Vietnam War veteran Bob Ervolina and his family during the Memorial Day parade in Long Beach. Ervolina was among the Vietnam veterans who were this year’s grand marshals.

Arthur Findlay/Herald

The Vietnam Veterans of America were among the many groups who participated in this year's Memorial Day parade in Long Beach.

Arthur Findlay/Herald

The Long Beach Memorial Day parade was held on Monday, May 30, where thousands of spectators and participants lined the streets to pay respect to the men and women who died in the military serving their country, to honor veterans and to show support for those currently in service.

City Manager Charles Theofan served as master of ceremonies as members of veterans’ groups, Long Beach schools, the LBPD and LBFD, the City’s Sanitation Department, City Council, County and State officials marched long with many other local organizations.

Vietnam veterans, this year’s grand marshals, were presented with special commemorative medals by the Long Beach Joint Veterans Organization, while Long Beach Police Department Commissioner Thomas Sofield Sr., also a Vietnam veteran, was a guest speaker. Many LBPD retirees marched along with current members of the force in celebration of the department’s 100th anniversary.

Crowds lined the streets along the parade route from the West End to Kennedy Plaza, which was followed by the placement of wreaths at the Veterans Memorial. Gold Star Mother Rosemary Wagner received a commemorative medal in honor of her son William, and Peggy Costigan of the American Legion Auxiliary was presented with a special award by the JVO for her dedication and service.

Report an inappropriate comment

HELP SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

The worldwide pandemic has threatened many of the businesses you rely on every day, but don’t let it take away your source for local news. Now more than ever, we need your help to ensure nothing but the best in hyperlocal community journalism comes straight to you. Consider supporting the Herald with a small donation. It can be a one-time, or a monthly contribution, to help ensure we’re here through this crisis. To donate or for more information, click here.