Sandston Memorial Day parade provides time to reflect

[maxgallery id="35076"]Members of Sandston American Legion Post 242 now can take a rest after yet another successful Memorial Day Parade.

The post hosted its 10th annual parade Monday, and member Bob Wade says it takes a lot of work to make it happen.

“Every year we say that's enough, we're not going to do it anymore,” said Wade, who spent two years in the Navy and 11 years in the Army. “But then October and November roll around and we say well. . . let's do it one more time and see how it goes.”

Parade planning began six months ago, and the group's hard work was not in vain.

Hundreds of spectators stretched out along Williamsburg road to cheer on the parade honoring veterans, with special attention given this year to the the United States Coast Guard.

Filled with flags and signs decorated in red, white, and blue, the parade included a fleet of vehicles representing community organizations and business like Mission Barbeque, the Highland Springs High School marching band, Sandston little league teams and the Henrico Fire Department.

Parade-goers sat in lawn chairs and on blankets in front of stores and houses to cheer them on.

Susan Parrish and Beverley Dean, both Sandston natives, have attended this parade every year since the beginning.

“For one thing, it's important for our veterans," said Parrish, "and the other thing is that it's important for our community. It’s one of the biggest things I see in Sandston.”

Dean’s father was in WWII, and she says it’s great to have a chance to celebrate Memorial Day.

“Any times to salute the veterans are the best,” said Dean. “Everybody ought to do it.”

That's part of the mission of The American Legion, an organization dedicated to helping veterans and the community.

Post 242 Commander Temple Ancarrow, who served three years in the U.S. Army, spent a lot of time planning and getting the word out for this year's parade and other Memorial Day events. On Friday, he placed flags on the graves at Seven Pines Cemetary.

“They gave the ultimate sacrifice,” said Ancarrow. “This is our way of showing appreciation that we have our freedom today.”

Ancarrow was pleased with the parade and said that other Legion members and community members agree that this is great way to commemorate the real meaning of Memorial Day.

“It's not about being happy,” said Doug Kipps, a veteran and Sandston native. “I know a few Gold Star families, and it’s not a happy day to them.”

Kipps, who served in the Navy during the Vietnam era, comes from a family of veterans, including an uncle who was a prisoner of war during WWII, a father who was on an aircraft carrier during WWII.

“We honor the members of the fallen that have given their lives,” he said.