The impending thunderstorms, forecasted by several weather stations, caused some towns to cancel their Memorial Day Parade, but not the town of Westfield. The Memorial Day celebration proceeded as planned and members of the community, who were scheduled to walk were all present and accounted for.
Excitement filled the air as Westfield residents began to gather at the Lord and Taylor parking lot. The Westfield High School band tuned their instruments; you could hear them in the distance as they prepared to showcase their talents. Humvees rolled into the parking lot, filled with National Guardsmen and young boys from the Westfield Troop 73 Boy Scouts watched in awe.
This year’s Grand Marshall was Sergeant Carlos Granados, Bravo Company, 2nd of the 113 Infantry Unit. Sergeant Granados deployed thrice; to Iraq from 2008 to 2009; to Afghanistan for one year in 2010; and in June 2014, to Qatar for support during Operation Enduring Freedom. Sergeant Granados stood firm and humbly as he awaited the vehicle that would parade him through the scores of patriotic Americans as a representation of the fallen service members he served with.
The event was a success and the weather cooperated. It would take a lot more than a dreary weather forecast to stop these determined residents from honoring veterans.
(above) Grand Marshall was Sergeant Carlos Granados with his wife Leidy Varon, and sons Esteban and Matthew.
