City officials estimate that more than 8,000 people lined the streets of Commerce City this year for the state’s largest Memorial Day parade, honoring military servicemembers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“It’s important that we take time to truly remember and honor our fallen service members for their sacrifice on Memorial Day,” said Commerce City Mayor Steve Douglas. “Their bravery and determination serve as profound inspiration to remind us to uphold the values they so gladly defended.”

Hundreds of parade entries from the military, police, law enforcement, fire, civic organizations, car clubs, and more made their way along a mile-and-a-half route to the delight of young and old alike. Many donned military caps and waved American flags.

The day’s events kicked off with a wreath-laying ceremony at Veteran’s Memorial Park and wrapped up with several family-friendly activities and a free concert by the local Journey tribute band Those Crazy Nights.

But for some veterans, like longtime Lakewood resident Jerry Sanchez, Sr., the parade offered something deeper.

“Gatherings like this are part of healing,” he said.

Sanchez, who said he served with the 15th Special Operations Squadron based at Nha Trang Air Base, Vietnam, thinks events like the Commerce City Memorial Day parade are important opportunities for young people to connect with and engage with those who have served.

“Our youngsters don’t know what conflicts are about,” he said. “They don’t know what wars are about, and I blame the political system.”

This year’s parade grand marshal was 1st Sgt. Robert Andrew Henry who, in his 27-year military career, saw duty in eight countries on three continents.

“This is not only a day of solemn remembrance but also a day of great gratitude,” he said.

Henry explained that, for him, Memorial Day is an opportunity for him to ensure the names and memories of five fellow servicemen are not forgotten.

“Sgt. David L. Leimbach, Staff Sgt Edgar A. Heredia, Army Sgt Daniel R. Gionet, Army Capt. Eric T. Paliwoda, and Army Staff Sgt. Dale A. Panchot,” he said. “Those are all members of the military that were lost during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operations Enduring Freedom who I personally knew and personally served with. I always want to honor their memory and honor the memories of their families.”

“Take pride Commerce City in honoring these heroes and hosting this time-honored community tradition that dates all the back to 1964,” Douglas said. “Their bravery and dedication serve as profound inspiration to remind us to uphold the values they so gladly defended.”