STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Hundreds of spectators lined Forest Avenue on Monday to honor the fallen at the 106th annual Staten Island Memorial Day Parade, continuing one of the borough’s most cherished traditions.
The parade, which began at noon at the intersection of Forest Avenue and Hart Boulevard in Randall Manor, honored those who sacrificed their lives in the country’s armed forces. Those in the armed forces were joined by a remarkable lineup that included the NYPD Marching Band, Staten Island Pipes and Drums, Rolling Thunder, the Boy Scouts, the 369th Harlem Hellfighters, various marching units, elected officials, and many others.
Charles Navarino, 94, an Army veteran who grew up in New Brighton and served in the Korean War, said he was happy to see the huge turnout. “We served our country. We all did our best. Some came home, and some didn’t come home. That’s one thing we never forgot,” he said.
Michael Sulsona, a Marine sergeant in Vietnam when he lost both legs, said: “Today is a very important day to remember those poor souls who are no longer with us. And they were good guys.”
Tim and Mary Anne Koller, who said they have been to almost every parade for the past few decades, were among the hundreds who lined Forest Avenue to show their support. They said the event is “a great way to demonstrate our appreciation as Americans for the military service of those who didn’t come home.”
Staten Island District Attorney Michael E. McMahon marched in the parade to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to America…