The 145th edition of the Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade is in the books, allowing a historic tradition to grow even more rich.

As the nation’s longest continuously running parade for this special holiday, the legacy is important and each year adds to it.

But this monumental undertaking wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of the parade committee, a group of just a couple dozen volunteers who go above and beyond each year to keep history marching along.

People may enjoy the parade for a few hours without even realizing that the committee has been working hard on it for months.

None of these individuals gets paid and simply volunteers their time because of love of country and county. They realize that this parade is about more than one day. It is about identity and pride for a community and the thousands of people who live or who have ever lived here.

The parade is a testament to our community’s dedication and commitment to honoring the veterans who have fought for our freedom. It is also a reflection of the quality of people who call Ironton and southern Ohio home.