Bethel’s Memorial Day parade to return

BETHEL — Following a two-year hiatus, the town's Memorial Day parade is making a comeback.

“Not only does it feel great for us veterans, but the town is anxious to get this parade back in,” said Skip Clapp from the Bethel Patriotic Association, which sponsors the parade. “We've had tremendous support from the town.”

Bethel's 2022 Memorial Day parade will take place May 22, kicking off from the intersection of Routes 53 and 302 at 2 p.m.

The procession will make its way to Barnum Square before turning left at the square and left onto School Street, where it will disband at the Municipal Center.

Former U.S. Marine and Afghanistan War veteran Thomas Burke will be the event's grand marshal, as well as the post-parade ceremony keynote speaker.

“We always try to choose somebody who we think will have a message to give,” said Clapp, noting that the post-parade ceremony starts right after the parade — usually around 3:15 p.m. — and takes place at the Municipal Center.

Clapp said this year's parade will be like the ones in years past, with participation from veteran organizations, scout troops, first responders and other local groups.

“It will be the same format, same time, same day of the month,” he said. “At first we didn't know how many people or groups we would have, but we're surpassing our expectations. People are anxious to get back and participate.”

Clapp, a U.S. Navy veteran who spent two-and-ahalf years in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, said Memorial Day is “more than just barbecues and furniture sales.”

“It's one of the most important, most solemn days,” he said. “On Memorial Day, we honor the veterans who didn't make it back — those who gave their last full measure of devotion.”

Any group or organization interested in participating in Bethel's upcoming parade should call the American Legion Post 100 as soon as possible at 203748-9400 and leave a message with their name and a callback number.