Ephrata celebrates Veterans Day

EPHRATA — Members of the community stood on the sidewalks Saturday to honor those who served in the U.S. military at Ephrata's annual Veterans Day parade.

Representatives of the Grant County Sheriff Posse, U.S. Calvary School, American Legion Color guard and Honor guard, and war veterans were among those who participated in the parade.

"We wanted to show that we really appreciate what people have done for us in terms of sacrificing life, and time and family, and loss. And I think it's important to honor our country even though this is a difficult time and many do not agree with the war," said Ephrata resident Billie Redford.

Laura Flanigan said she and her friend Rosemary Owsley attend the parade every year. Flanigan's husband is in the parade, and so is one of Owsley's friends.

"Every year. Every time," Flanigan said. "We're always there, and we're always cold."

After the event, veterans who lived in Ephrata when they served in World War II were honored at the Ephrata Recreation Center, and Grant County residents killed during the Vietnam war were honored at the Grant County Courthouse.

Jimmy Rosa said he received around eight decorations during World War II, including a Purple Heart and Silver Star.

"There's too many people that deserved them worse than I did," Rosa said.

Rosa participated in the parade as part of the McKay Healthcare and Rehab Center float, which included several other veterans.

"Just glad to be remembered," he said.