Photo: WDIO-TV

By Emily Ness of WDIO-TV - May 31, 2021

The brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for our freedom were honored at Duluth’s Memorial Day parade Monday.

“This day is for the people that we lost—the ones that couldn't come home,” Scott Smitkey, a veteran in attendance said.

For many, this year's celebration was especially meaningful after the pandemic took many simple freedoms away.

“This is one of the first main events that Duluth and Superior and our Twin Ports area has had so hopefully this is the start to a new, fresh beginning,” Andrea O’Flanagan of Superior said.

People began arriving on Grand Avenue an hour ahead of time to get the best seat in the house.

“We got here at about 10:30 this morning. You've got to get a front row seat,” Kathy O’Flanagan of Superior said.

Hundreds from around the region took part in the festivities where candy thrown out to the crowds, music was played and veterans were honored.

“People are extra excited because they've been waiting more than just a year,” Edward Swapinski of Ely said.

In all of the excitement, there was also a feeling of gratitude and respect for all veterans have done to protect and provide for us all.

“I’ve lost brothers and fellow servicemen. It’s just a good thing to remember them,” Smitkey said.

The Duluth Women of Today and local veteran's service organizations set up the parade and were very glad to see it return.

To see the original story and read related reporting, follow this lin to the WDIO-TV website. https://www.wdio.com/duluth-minnesota-news/duluths-memorial-day-parade-returns/6127005/