Community Corner

Updates on the 134th Annual Noank Memorial Day Parade!

Everything, and we mean everything, you need to know about the parade.

By way of blogger Ed Johnson, here’s updated parade information for Monday provided by Parade Chairman Russell Fowler.  

·      On Monday, the Post and Noank Fire Department will set up the picnic (tables, chairs, grills, etc.) beginning at 8 a.m. ALL of the food has been generously donated by the Fisherman restaurant, without whose generosity this would not have been possible.  We ask that no one park their vehicles in front of the Park on Main Street so we can deliver, tables, chairs, barbecue grills, etc. right in front and walk them directly in. Volunteers are needed!
·       Steve Mills of US Country FM 99.5 will join us, broadcasting from the park (also in the parade!)
·      Cooking will begin around 10:45 with post-parade serving of meals planned to begin around 11:45 to 1:30 p.m. (or when the food runs out.)
·       A suggested donation of $4-$5 per meal is all we ask, to support this American Legion fundraiser. Where can you get a burger/dog, chips and coke or bottled water for that price these days? For that price, this is probably the best deal in the whole county!
·      We hope everyone will buy a Poppy from one of our Senior Legionnaires, Marty Schames. He will be at a table of his own, selling poppies and telling of his experiences in North Africa, Sardinia, Corsica and Europe with the AAF and his beloved A26s. Buy a poppy, you'll make his day, get an idea of his experiences and you'll honor a Veteran! (There will be a lot of info about the American Legion available. If you are a Vet, "We want you!")   
·      Parade  staging in the Baptist Church parking lots, on Church Street and on Main Street from 9 to 10 a.m. Please try to remain off-road, so the various marching divisions groups, marchers and VIP vehicles can be assembled and staged in order. Our Brother Post 114 (Groton) will be participating with a Color Guard.
·      The Parade steps off at 10 a.m. and once it steps off, it takes on a life of its own.  Veterans in and out of uniform are encouraged and welcome to march, or ride in the parade. Contact me, SSG Fowler, (ret) or Mike Ellis and we'll hook you up in a marching division or with a ride, no problem. 
·      Grand Marshall Commander Oliver "Ollie" Porter (USN ret) will lead the Parade this year.
·      The Mystic-Noank Band will play all during the Parade in the Southwest corner of the Park, and hand off it's playing around 11:30 to the Fitch High School band, while they go eat. Once fed, both bands (which have additional commitments), will leave shortly afterward. They will provide music as long as possible.
·      This leaves about 2 hours for everyone to get together, grab a bite to eat and just enjoy being together, swapping stories and renewing acquaintances.
·      Post-picnic cleanup volunteers are needed. Any volunteers who would like to stay around to help clean up the Park, and load the barbecues, tables and chairs, will be greatly appreciated.
·      While celebrating this 134th (the best we can confirm from GAR and our own Legion Historical notes) Noank Memorial Day Parade, The American Legion membership, the Noank Fire District and the Noank Fire Department appreciate greatly the part the public plays in support of this event and fundraiser.  

We truly hope you enjoy this Veteran's Memorial Day event!  


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