This year "we" (Alex, Taylor and I) went to the Wyoming/West Wyoming Memorial Day Parade. Last year you, Alex, became a member of the Wyoming Cemetery Association - following a line of membership that from Grandpa Bob Carroll and later Dad Bob Carroll. It seemed like a good idea to attend the cemetery program, which we did - and enjoyed patriotic selections by the Paci Band (in which Uncle Jason played trumpet for a time). It's nice to participate in old-time traditions such as speeches at cemeteries to commemorate individuals and their sacrifices that have contributed to our amazing, wonderful country. I'm so glad I went.
The ceremony follows the parade, which we also attended (at most, it lasts 30 minutes!). I have many memories of the parade, and I'll share a few with you. First of all, it was a significant town event NOT to be missed. Grandpa was often in the parade - I'm sure he was the Grand Marshall at least one as well as the main speaker at the cemetery program. Dad was often in the parade too, in my memory as a boy scout troop leader (West Wyoming troop 366), Wyoming councilman or Little League parent. Both of you boys walked in the parade with the Little League, and Rob you probably walked in it as a cub scout. Meanwhile, Grandma and I tried very hard to arrive in plenty of time at the designated parade-watching corner which was at 7th street across from Avenue News (now Sorrick's Jewelry). Uncle George, Aunt Rebecca and cousins Laura, David and Jason were often there (they also walked in the parade with the WA Marching Band - I remember Laura played flute and David was a drummer). Grandma was absolutely thrilled when grandsons came along, and we would be sure you each had sunglasses and a drink in the stroller. She was very proud to introduce you to friends and enjoyed as you watched the military color guard, old cars, bands, scouts, teams and fire trucks. And as pre-schoolers, ran out to get candy when it was thrown from floats, trucks, etc.
One very unique feature of this parade was Victor (whose last name I forget) who rode his old bicycle in the parade for many years. I remember him as an older man (not entirely clean), standing on the seat of his bike with one leg out behind him. Amazingly, I did find a video! So below are pictures from the 2015 parade & cemetery program, along with a 1993 video of Vic. As indicated by the name of the video, everyone yelled "Vic, Vic do a trick!" He definitely loved to oblige.
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