ROSS TOWNSHIP, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — In one rural community in the Back Mountain, Memorial Day is about more than just remembrance, it's also a major fundraiser that keeps first responders running.
Sweet Valley may be a small community, but the support here runs deep.
From fire trucks to flags, this Memorial Day parade in Sweet Valley is more than a tradition: It's a chance for people to remember the fallen while raising funds for their fire department.
"It's a nice country back road drive, and so we came down here looking to celebrate Memorial Day today and all the sacrifices that the military made for me to live in the land of the free," Joe Fabricatore from Dunmore said.
From homemade pierogies to flashing lights on emergency vehicles, the day offered something for people of all ages.
"We love the family atmosphere. The food is amazing, and the kids just have a fun experience running and seeing the fire trucks, the cop cars," Hunlock Creek resident Sheila Morris said.
"But the day didn't stop with the sirens and marching bands. Right after the parade, the competition heated up. Firefighters traded their dress uniforms for gear and got to work in the Fireman's Olympics.
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Going several decades strong, the fire crews try a mix of old-school challenges and serious physical tests.
Firefighters call it a chance to show the strength and endurance of their job, especially in small communities like this, where every responder is a volunteer.
"You know it's just really great. They get to see what we do. We're all volunteers, so we do this just on our own time," Shavertown Fire Department Volunteer Patrick Shelton stated.
The event also helps keep the station running. Organizers say it brings in nearly 30% of the Sweet Valley Fire and Ambulance Company's yearly budget.
"It's paramount that we have the community support. Because with everything in today's economy, everything is more expensive now. That goes for everything from the cost of equipment to utility bills," Sweet Valley Fire and Ambulance Company Assistant Chief David Pall told 28/22 News.
Whether they came to cheer, compete, or just enjoy the day, folks here made one thing clear: Supporting your local firefighters is something worth showing up for.
A tradition that's lasted around 75 years, and it's still going strong.
Organizers say they're already looking ahead to next year's Memorial Day celebration in Sweet Valley.
