Firefighters Parade Through Merrick

Merokeans gathered along Babylon Turnpike Saturday evening to give their support to the people that keep them safe.

The Nassau County Firefighters Parade kicked off from Babylon Turnpike and Sunrise Highway and then headed south toward the Four Towns Firemen's Training Center located at the corner of Merrick and Clubhouse roads.

"It's something that has been a tradition for a long time," Merrick Fire Department Chief Christopher Simmons said. "It gives us a chance to show the people what kind of equipment we have and also show them how much pride we have in what we do."

Various fire departments from all over the county were represented in the parade, and there were various forms of entertainment as well. One organization, known as the "Comanche Raiders," has been doing parades for a long time.

"We are happy to be a part of this," Patricia Delbello said. "It brings us joy, and we hope we bring joy to the people as well."

Residents filled the sides of the streets to show support to the fire department, and many have been doing so for years.

"I like to support the firemen," Maria Finn said. "They do such a fabulous job and I just like to be here to be a part of it."

The parade has been going on for more than 40 years, according to Simmons, and this year, it was Merrick's turn to host the event.

For Carol Kramer, who lives on Babylon Turnpike, seeing the parades right in front of her house is like a blast from the past.

"Twenty years ago, I marched in those parades as a volunteer myself," Kramer said. "It definitely brings back a lot of memories and I love anything that brings community spirit to Merrick."

The participating fire departments also took part in fire drill tournaments on Friday evening and Saturday morning.  Photos from those events coming soon.