On Memorial Day, classic automobiles drive to the aid of veterans.
Although convertibles aren’t as common as they once were, every Memorial Day weekend, they play a crucial role in transporting elderly and disabled veterans to and from parades around the United States.
They are typically joined by other historic automobiles and trucks, turning the event into a veritable car show, although for a good cause.
“Memorial Day weekend is a national holiday, and the surrounding parades and celebrations are a way for Americans to honor the fallen and celebrate, patriotically, the beginning of summer,” said Jonathan Klinger, vice president of culture at automotive lifestyle brand Hagerty, to Fox News Autos.
“Memorial Day parades, like Fourth of July and Labor Day celebrations, have become ingrained, organic parts of the tradition and pomp.”
“The automobile is a signature achievement in U.S. history,” Klinger said, explaining why autos are often the focus of national pride celebrations.
Since Gerri Rice’s father Mort Plato and his comrades returned from World War II, they have been assisting with the parade’s organization in Amherst, Ohio.
Its history is quite similar to that of many other American cities.
She said that initially only the veterans would pay their respects at the town’s five graves. However, over time, they were joined by the town’s service groups, sports teams, a drum corps, and poppy girls. As time went on, the procession became larger.
