Coupeville's Memorial Day parade honors fallen heroes

Coupeville’s annual Memorial Day parade and Remembrance Ceremony takes place Saturday, May 28, beginning at 11 a.m. with the parade along Main Street.

The day of patriotic events includes a parade, a brief veterans’ recognition, a free picnic and a performance by Navy Band Northwest.

There are 72 entrees signed up for the annual parade comprised of community groups, veterans and bands, said Lynda Eccles, executive director for the Central Whidbey Chamber of Commerce.

Six Pearl Harbor survivors, along with other World War II veterans, will ride in classic cars provided by the Whidbey Cruzers. The parade route starts on South Main Street, proceeds onto North Main Street, then winds through downtown Coupeville before ending up at Town Park on Coveland.

Eccles said she knows of only one other city in Western Washington that holds an annual Memorial Day parade.

Following the parade, a remembrance ceremony will take place at Town Park, with Whidbey Island Naval Air Station Commanding Officer Capt. Jay Johnston and Coupeville Mayor Nancy Conard scheduled to speak. Following their remarks, Navy Band Northwest will perform a free concert.

Central Whidbey Lions Club members will serve a free hot dog lunch following the remembrance ceremony.

Memorial Day in Coupeville provides a way to honor military men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country, while providing a festive day that is fun and inspiring for the entire family.

Contact Whidbey News Times Staff reporter Nathan Whalen at nwhalen@whidbeynewsgroup.com or 360-675-6611 ext. 5058.

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