Perfect weather with sunny skies drew crowds to the western portion of Carbon County Sunday afternoon to honor those who served their country.

The four-division Carbon County Veterans Day Parade of the Carbon County Veterans Council was hosted by the Nesquehoning United Veterans Organization 8008 and drew representation from all corners of the county.

Grand Marshal was Theodore “Ted” M. Dacey Sr., United States Air Force veteran and well known Nesquehoning civic leader.

The parade, which rotates among the county’s various boroughs, has become a popular yearly ritual.

Some said they have created a family tradition of following the parade around the county.

Other parade watchers included veterans who turned out to honor fellow veterans.

One stood at attention on Catawissa Street across from the post office and saluted military entries as they passed by.

“I’m a United States Coast Guard veteran,” said Sy Kipp of Lehighton.

“I’m here today with my partner Judy.”

Kipp said Judy’s family members were taking part in the line of march, including Koy Wentz and Mia Schoenberger with the Lehighton Area High School Band and cheerleaders.

With the event drawing visitors from around the county, employees of Nesquehoning businesses such as Turkey Hill Minit Market became instant ambassadors. They greet visitors and assist guests, many of whom stop in to purchase coffee, food, soft drinks, or simply to use the restroom.

An employee said she was looking forward to seeing the parade.

“I just learned about this,” said Courtney Lewis of Nesquehoning, as she responded to questions by visitors.

“I’m new here on this job and just learned about the parade.”

She was hoping the busy pace of the day somehow would allow her time to see some of the parade as it passed by.

The hourlong parade was telecast live on Blue Ridge Communications TV-13 and on WLSH AM 1410 radio.

Police and fire police were on hand to direct traffic around the borough.