Tribune Editorial Staff

It was cooler than the normal Memorial Day, and the weatherman warned of the threats of rain. Still, thousands lined the streets of Ironton Monday to witness a hometown tradition - the annual Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade.

As the procession began, clouds hung over the city, but before long, the sun broke through and produced a nice day for the enthusiastic crowd to watch a parade.

As always, the floats were appealing, the participants were compelling and the mood was scintillating. As always, the spectators went home with a smile on their faces, knowing the people of Ironton and Lawrence County know how to produce a top-notch parade.

The parade, however, doesn't come together by itself. It takes the efforts of many men and women determined to carry on a tradition that has lasted 135 years. The Memorial Day Parade Committee, once again, put together a brilliant display of patriotism and community pride.

The Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade is not an event that is planned over a few weeks or even a few months. It is a year-long process that takes a lot of planning and hard work. These folks should be commended for their dedication to the community.

Just as we sing praise to the parade committee, we cannot forget the others who make it happen. A tip of the hat also goes to all of the division commanders, who make sure the participants stay in step; all of the entrants, who put in a lot of hard work of their own to ensure that the streets are filled with beauty; the city workers, who prepare the streets and clean them up after the parade is over; and the many, many others who devote time to the event.

In Lawrence County, Memorial Day is more than backyard barbecues and family get-togethers.

It is about heritage.

The Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade is a prime example of a community supporting its heritage. Whether you helped put the parade together, marched or rode in it or simply watched it, you did your part to ensure the tradition continues.