Honoring Heroes: The Derby Elks Float Shines in the 2025 Memorial Day Parade

Memorial Day is a time to reflect, honor, and celebrate the brave men and women who have served our country. This year, the Derby Elks Lodge took center stage in the Derby-Shelton Memorial Day Parade, showcasing a float that embodied patriotism, remembrance, and community spirit.

A Tribute to Service

The Derby Elks float was a stunning tribute to veterans, featuring a beautifully decorated display adorned with American flags, red, white, and blue bunting, and heartfelt messages of gratitude. At the heart of the float stood a symbolic representation of unity—local veterans and Elks members waving proudly to the crowd, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made for our freedom.

Community Engagement

Spectators lined the streets of Shelton and Derby, cheering as the float made its way along the parade route. The Elks Lodge has long been a pillar of the community, supporting veterans, youth programs, and charitable initiatives. Their participation in the parade was yet another example of their dedication to service.

A Moment to Remember

One of the most touching moments came as the float passed the Derby-Shelton Bridge, where a ceremonial wreath was cast into the Housatonic River in honor of fallen heroes. The sight of veterans saluting as the float rolled by was a poignant reminder of the true meaning of Memorial Day.

Looking Ahead

The Derby Elks Lodge continues to inspire with its commitment to honoring veterans and fostering community connections. As the parade came to a close, attendees left with a renewed sense of appreciation for those who have served—and for the organizations like the Elks that keep their legacy alive.