Special significance felt at parade

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - The annual Veterans Day parade took on special significance Wednesday, as Sgt. Dale Griffin's hearse led the parade.

Acknowledging the tone, the parade became officially a procession. It was a true showing of solidarity Wednesday morning, as larger than usual crowds came out to the procession.

"I almost lost it. I wasn't expecting that reaction for myself. It was extremely moving," Marilyn Cloutier said.

The procession started shortly before 10 a.m. at 4th and Wabash.

As each group of military personnel marched past, the hundreds gathered on either side of the street clapped and showed their support. Children getting the day off from school, came out, waving flags and learning the most important lesson about patriotism.

"They are great people and they're making the ultimate sacrifice and we certainly want to honor them every way we can," Zorah Shrine Potentate Fred Drake said.

Those watching will not soon forget. Those like Cloutier, who felt compelled to come out and bring her granddaughter.

"Today, I felt it was important to be here to show that sign of solidarity, support and respect," Cloutier said.

Support and respect shown as hundreds of motorcycle riders later led the way in a procession to the funeral at Terre Haute South Vigo High School.

"I think it's our duty to do it. Anytime a man fights and dies for his country, he needs to be, it needs to be noted by everybody," American Legion Rider Mike Cazee said.