2026 Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshal Named In Westport

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Parks and Recreation Department has named Herbert "Herb" Podel, a 101-year-old World War II veteran and longtime Westport resident, as the grand marshal of the town’s 2026 Memorial Day Parade.

Podel served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, where he was attached to a CB Unit as an aviation and electronics specialist. According to the department, the unit’s work focused on preparations for the planned invasion of Japan.

A resident of Westport since 1965, Podel spent much of his career as a self-employed manufacturer of recreation equipment. He is the father of two daughters, Alison Bricken and Jacqueline Podel.

Over the years, Podel has been involved in several community organizations and volunteer efforts in Westport. The town has recognized him twice for volunteer service. He also served as board president of The Saugatuck Senior Cooperative, founded the Cultural Salon discussion group in Westport, and volunteered in various roles at Temple Israel.

Podel currently resides at The Residence at Westport and remains active at the Westport Center for Senior Activities, where he participates in classes, discussion groups and community events.

The 2026 Memorial Day Parade is scheduled for Monday, May 25, and will honor U.S. service members who died in military service.

Westport groups, civic organizations and businesses interested in participating in the Memorial Day Parade are invited to complete the form Sign Up for the Memorial Day Parade on the Parks & Recreation page: https://www.westportct.gov/government/departments-a-z/parks-and-recreation.

Registration Deadline: Sunday, May 17, 2026. All participating groups must register in advance.

The Parks and Recreation Department will release additional parade information, including the official program and line of march, on May 18.