This year’s Memorial Day parade in Youngsville, PA carried more weight than usual.
 
What’s traditionally a day of remembrance became a moment of goodbye as the Youngsville High School marching band made what may be its final appearance before the school’s closure this summer.
 
The parade route led through town and ended at Youngsville Cemetery, where a service was conducted by the Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Post 658's honor guard. Veterans and residents gathered to pay tribute not only to the nation’s fallen service members, but also to a beloved community tradition.
 
The day was especially emotional for the students, as it also marked the retirement of longtime band director Cindy Scheid, who has led the program for more than 30 years.
 
“Ms. Scheid is the best," stated freshman Grayson Ling. "This day has definitely meant a lot. It's probably my most favorite memory of band." 
 
"It's a bittersweet retirement, because they are closing my building and taking my kids," Scheid said. "But what has been amazing today was the number of alumni that came back to do the parade with us."
 
Adding to the bittersweet moment, students recently learned the marching band had been invited to perform at the 250th Salute to America celebration in Washington, D.C. in 2026—an opportunity they won’t be able to accept due to the school’s closure.
 
“To be asked to play in D.C. was really big,” said sophomore percussionist Joshua Pikna. “Honestly, it's really rough that we can't go, but it was an honor to know that we were selected."
 
As the final notes of taps echoed through the cemetery, some residents were left reflecting on more than just military sacrifice.
 
“It means a lot, especially with what is happening, to see so many people in the community come out," stated Archie Hollabaugh, Commander of the Sons of the American Legion Post 658. "But we started the color guard a couple of decades ago and it has been an honor to march in the parade every year."
 
The day honored more than sacrifice, it honored unity, as both young and old gathered for a final shared chapter in Youngsville's legacy.