Spirit of Princeton invites the community to the annual Memorial Day Parade and dedication ceremony on Saturday, May 27. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. at Princeton Avenue and Nassau Street and then heads down Nassau Street to Princeton Monument Hall, where the ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. The parade features veterans groups, marching bands, and civic and youth groups, all marching to honor those who have died in military service to their country.

Kris “Tanto” Paronto, a former U.S. Army Ranger and part of the Benghazi security team featured in the movie 13 Hours, will be parade grand marshal and guest speaker at the ceremony.

All active duty or veteran service men and women throughout Central New Jersey are encouraged to walk in the parade. At the conclusion of the event, residents are encouraged to continue their Memorial Day commemoration by participating in Princeton Battlefield Society events including living history programs (drills and talks) from noon throughout the afternoon at the Princeton Battlefield, and a lecture at 6 p.m. about Revolutionary Princeton at the Battle Monument.

The Memorial Day Parade will feature nearly three dozen participating groups. It is financed by the Spirit of Princeton, a charitable nonprofit group of local residents dedicated to bringing the community together through a variety of civic events such as the Memorial Day Parade, Flag Day Ceremony, and Veterans Day Ceremony. Donations to Spirit of Princeton are encouraged to ensure the future of these events. See the website for information on how you can ”Get into the Spirit” by donating.

The parade and ceremony will take place rain or shine. No political campaigning is allowed in the parade, but local officials will be recognized along the parade route. Participating veterans can park at Monument Hall. Shuttle service is available from Monument Hall to the parade start on Princeton Avenue. For further information about the parade or any of the associated activities, call (609) 430-0144 or go to the website at www.spiritofprinceton.org.