Honoring Generations of Fallen Heroes: Memorial Day Parade 2013

Once again, thousands of North Cantonites will assemble to honor those who gave their lives defending America and its principles. 

This year's Memorial Day parade -- organized by the North Canton Lions Club -- will step off at 9 a.m. from the north side of the Hoover High School Memorial Stadium parking lot, according to North Canton Mayor David Held.  

Grand Marshal Rod Covey, a U.S. Navy veteran, will guide hundreds of participants down 7th Street to Main Street toward the square, said Held.

The parade will then turn east on Maple Street and will spill into Bitzer Park for a brief memorial ceremony. 

According to Lions Club parade chairman Greg Sarbach, 32 units along with several groups and organizations will join the march.

Participants include: 

• The Marlboro Military Vehicle Preservation Association, which will lead a procession of war vehicles down the parade route. 
• The North Canton Elks. The Elks will present 17 American flags to commemorate various U.S. wars. 
• Blue Star Mothers, the mothers of serving veterans.
• Gold Star Mothers, the mothers of deceased veterans.
• Lions club World War II veterans.
• Hoover High Schools marching band.
• The North Canton Fire Department and EMS.

"The community's involvement in this parade is what we encourage. . .for residents to come out and remember," said Sarbach.