The town of Tamaqua has held a Veterans Day parade since post Civil War days.

But this year, for the first time, national recognition is being accorded for the role veterans play all year long in the vitality of the community and how the community, in return, shows its appreciation.

Tom Isleib, commander, Tamaqua American Legion C.H. Berry Post 173, announced the news following Saturday’s Eastern Schuylkill Veterans Day Parade.

“We’ve been recognized as one of 66 regional sites by the Veterans Day National Committee,” he said.

The process was begun months ago through a nomination started by volunteers at the local Legion post, including an application produced by Mike Polyak, Legion judge advocate.

The honor was bestowed Saturday by Harry Hause, Pennsylvania Department of Legion, Eastern Section Commander, who also took part in the parade.

Hause said he was moved to witness the outpouring of devotion to veterans exhibited by local residents.

“I’m humbled to see the support we have here today.”

Following the parade, a ceremony and hot lunch were hosted at the Legion home, West Broad Street.

There, a proclamation was presented by Brian Connely, Tamaqua Borough Council president.

“It’s a special day being designated,” said Connely. “What the Legion has done for us for this honor shows how they just keep giving back to the community.”

In addition, state Rep. Jamie Barton, R-124, presented congratulatory proclamations to the legion and community as adopted by the state House of Representatives.

“We should celebrate our veterans every day,” said Barton, citing “courage, bravery and sacrifice. Those words mean a lot.”

He offered a prayer “in celebration of wonderful men and women who allow us to rest easy and sleep easy.”

Barton marched in the parade with Mayor Nate Gerace.

Gerace said the turnout was strong. He and Barton zigzagged along the line of marching, distributing American flags to spectators.

“We handed out at least 500 flags,” said Gerace.

Also on hand was Bill Richards representing state Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, presenting a proclamation on behalf of Argall and the state Senate.

“National recognition is not something to be taken lightly,” Richards said.

In turn, the Legion acknowledged and shared the accolades with partners who further advance the relationship between veterans and the local community. These include: Tamaqua Area School District, Tamaqua Area Chamber of Commerce, Tamaqua Area Community Partnership, St. Luke’s Health System Miners Campus, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 173 and Sons of the American Legion Squadron 173.

Master of Ceremonies Jack Kulp, Vietnam veteran, reminded attendees that veterans are always on duty.

“They’re defending us 365 days a year. Not all have seen combat but all have made a solemn oath to sacrifice their lives if called on to defend their country.”

Before the parade, the Legion rifle squad fired a volley as they stood alongside the Rahn Township Honor Roll Memorial on East Broad Street, part of Tamaqua Borough since 1971.

Taps and echo taps were offered by Tamaqua Area High School trumpet players Brianna Snyder and Peter McGinley.

Volunteers of Tamaqua fire police handled traffic control along Routes 209 and 309.