'Longstanding Pillar' Of New Lenox Selected As Grand Marshal Of Loyalty Day Parade

NEW LENOX, IL — New Lenox officials on Wednesday announced the Grand Marshal of the Village's upcoming Loyalty Day Parade—a resident described as a "longstanding pillar of the community."

Marty E. Terlep has been tapped to serve as the Grand Marshal of the 45th annual William A. Athans and 18th District VFW Posts’ Loyalty Day Parade Loyalty Day Parade, set for Sunday, May 4.

Terlep’s "dedication to service and leadership has made a profound impact on New Lenox and the surrounding areas," officials wrote in a press release.

Throughout his career, Terlep has demonstrated unwavering commitment to his community through countless volunteer efforts. He served 17 years as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Will County Tuberculosis Clinic, spent 7 years on the Board of Directors for Southwest Financial Bank & Trust Company, and has been an active member of numerous other organizations. He is a past president of the Cherry Hill Homeowner’s Association, a current member of the American Legion Post 1977, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Will County Old Timers Baseball Association.

Terlep is also a proud U.S. Army veteran who served in the Korean War, family said.

A 50-year member of Kiwanis International, Terlep has held significant roles in the organization, including serving on the Kiwanis Board of Directors for 12 years and as Executive Secretary for Kiwanis Peanut Day. Additionally, he has served on the Board of Directors for the Joliet YMCA, was Chairman of the Ambassadors Committee for the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and participated in the Downtown Joliet Development Council.

Terlep’s extensive volunteer work includes a dedicated 33 years with the Salvation Army, supporting the Bell Ringing and Donut Days fundraisers, and volunteering at Joliet Bi-Centennial Park Concerts on the Hill. He also continues to serve on the Board of Commissioners for the New Lenox Fire Protection District, where he has held his seat for the past 15 years.

“Marty’s leadership and commitment to the betterment of his community is truly inspiring,” said Tim Baldermann, Mayor of New Lenox. “He has touched countless lives through his selfless service, and we are proud to honor him as the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Loyalty Day Parade.”

The Loyalty Day Parade will take place on May 4th in New Lenox, kicking off at 2 p.m. at the corner of Cedar Road and Joliet Highway (see website for route details). This parade’s ongoing theme of honoring our country, flag and all of those who serve, perfectly aligns with Terlep’s legacy of volunteerism and servant leadership.

The community is encouraged to attend the parade and join in celebrating Terlep’s contributions to the New Lenox area.

The William A. Athans and 18th District VFW Posts’ Loyalty Day Parade was established in 1978 in honor of Loyalty Day, a holiday taking place annually on May 1 to demonstrate loyalty to our country and recognize the heritage of our American freedom. As the Home of Proud Americans, New Lenox is honored to be able to celebrate our country, our flag, and all those who have served or currently serve in our Armed Forces with this annual event. Three generations of the Athans family, along with New Lenox VFW Post 9545, kept the parade in operation until 2020, when it was put on hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the Village of New Lenox took over the parade operations and brought the event back to life for the residents and businesses who enjoy the festive annual tradition.