It is the nation's oldest continuing Memorial Day parade - and now, it will have a historical marker proudly proclaiming its importance.

A ceremonial unveiling of an Ohio Historical Society marker honoring the Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade will be 4 p.m. Friday, May 28 at the Lawrence County Courthouse.

The marker was the brainchild of parade committee member Lou Pyles. Her husband, Brent Pyles even wrote the text of the marker. Both of them spent several months researching the parade and getting documentation on the parade's lengthy history.

"I'm excited about this," Lou Pyles said. "Our parade brings so many people to the county and to Ironton. Sometimes it gets overlooked and I thought it needed the recognition."

The ceremony will bring officials with both the Ohio Historical Society and the Ohio Bicentennial Commission to town. It will be one of many ceremonies and other events in observance of Memorial Day and honor the contributions Lawrence County veterans have made in service to their country throughout the years. The events will culminate with the parade on Monday, May 31 in downtown Ironton.

The deep burgundy marker with gold lettering will be located on the courthouse lawn on Center Street.