Rochester Area Memorial Day Parade of Heroes
Memorial Day Parade Entry Form - Click Here!
Application due May 13, 2024, to maggie@rrc-mi.com.
Form Instructions
- Use the fillable type-form; handwritten entries will not be accepted.
- Once your application is processed, you will receive 2 emails:
1. The first email is a confirmation of application.
2. The second email will be sent at a later date and include detailed instructions (regarding your parade lineup number, times, and official parade regulations).
Monday, May 27, 2024
The Memorial Day Parade of Heroes is a great family-friendly event supported by many organizations in our community.
The RRC Foundation facilitates the parade on behalf of local municipalities including the City of Rochester and Rochester Hills.
May the legacy of our community be to uphold this unforgettable tradition, bring teachable moments to our children, and raise awareness about the meaning of Memorial Day.
The Rochester Regional Chamber Foundation, a 501c3 organization dedicated to advancing leadership development and community engagement initiatives.
Schedule
- 8:00 am - City of Rochester Ceremony at Mt. Avon.
- 9:00 am - Parade begins at Mt. Avon Cemetry in Rochester.
- 10:30 am - Parade ends at Veteran’s Point, Rochester Hills, with a closing Ceremony by Rochester Hills.
- 1:30 pm - Hot dogs at Rochester Fire Station.
In Collaboration With
Why a Parade? - History
The idea of a small, community-wide Memorial Day parade was organized for many years by John & Mary Modetz, longtime, residents and owners of Modetz Funeral Homes, along with co-chair Terri Williams. Then, in 2019, a small group of passionate community members brought the parade back for one year, led by Terry Gonser Director of The Veteran’s Tribute of Oakland County. During this family friendly event, several hundred residents gathered with flags and smiles to celebrate.
After the 2019 parade, Rochester City Council Member Mark Albrecht championed the idea of creating a sustainable parade model, bridging communities, and honoring local heroes during the Sister City Committee meetings with – Rochester Hills Council Members: David Blair, Theresa Mungioli & David Walker; along with Rochester Council Members: Amanda Harrison, Douglas Gould, & Mark Albrecht. As a result, the RRC Foundation was invited to manage logistics and facilitate the Memorial Day parade. Another key supporter in making the parade possible is Vito A. Pampalona, owner of Vito Anthony Homes and local decorated, disabled Vietnam Army Veteran.