Marrittstown celebrates the 4th
MERRITTSTOWN – “Happy Birthday America.” The words of state Sen. Richard Kasunic resonated, along with applause from the crowd gathered along the streets of Merrittstown, awaiting the start of the 41st annual July 4 Parade. The audience listened intently as Kasunic reminded them of why the United States is “the envy of the rest of the world.” He talked about the nation’s freedoms, which began in Pennsylvania with the signing of the Declaration of Independence 231 years ago.
“We are fortunate here in the United States to live in the greatest nation the world has ever seen,” said Kasunic, asking if anyone had ever thought about what it might be like to live in another part of the world that does not have the right to liberty.
“Imagine living in another country where they have never experienced freedom,” said Kasunic. “Where they have always lived under dictatorship and tyranny. American men and women have served honorably for 231 years to give us the freedoms we have, and those men and women deserve our respect. We honor them, and we miss many of them, and we will never forget those who gave us freedom that we may assemble like this today and speak freely.”
Herman Jackson, who served as master of ceremony, asked during his invocation for God to bless the service men and women serving today, and later agreed with the sentiments of Kasunic, and added that everyone who has served in the military deserves our thanks.
Fayette County Commissioner Vincent Vicites commented that since the beginning of this nation’s freedom 231 years ago, there has been a lot of scandal in politics. He reminded the audience that there have been three presidents impeached, several assassination attempts, and a lot of arguing on Capitol Hill.
“There is only one section of the government that has remained bipartisan,” said Vicites. “One section has never filibustered or cast an incorrect vote. That is the armed forces of the United States.”
Vicites said that no matter what one’s opinion might be about the war in Iraq, everyone must share “a profound sense of pride for men and women of the armed forces.”
He pointed out that only about 1 percent of the United States population is part of the military.
“This small portion who serves today are for the betterment of this country tomorrow,” said Vicites.
“They love America and we love them.”
Boy Scout Troop 664 raised the flag during the opening ceremony, and Michelle Hudock performed the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America.
The tradition of the parade was started by only a small group of children in 1967, who marched down the street carrying flags and playing musical instruments.
That group of children is featured on the programs used for the event each year. Through the years, the same families who participated in that first parade and many other local contributors have worked to make the event what it is today.
The village’s parade now features antique cars, military groups, local fire trucks, and appearances by local politicians. The Brownsville Area High School Band also participated. This year’s Parade Marshal was Commandant Daniel Martin of the Marine Corps League Laurel Highlands Detachment 732.