This year on May 30, the town of Westport celebrated its annual Memorial Day parade a little differently.

Due to the weather this past Monday, the Staples marching band marched down the aisles of town hall for a Memorial Day ceremony instead of marching down the streets of downtown. This is the first time in five years that the parade has been cancelled due to rain.

While many celebrate Memorial Day enjoying the nice weather with family and friends while barbecuing outside, many don’t know that Memorial Day comes from 1868 after the civil war in order to remember those who have died fighting for the United States.

“We brought the parade inside to you,” said parade organizer Bill Vornkhal.

In front of Westport Policemen, firefighters and veterans, there was a special performance from from the Wethersfield drum corps. Julia Kempner ’16 also sang “America, The Beautiful” along with the Staples marching band.

The Memorial Day parade tries to capture that meaning each year and in honor of remembering our soldiers, Grand Marshal Joseph Schachter named all of the Westport veterans who have passed this year.

“It’s our obligation to take time to remember and honor every man and woman who serves in defense of our country,” said First Selectman Jim Marpe.