Get ready to cheer, wave and listen to some music at their year’s patriotic Coupeville Memorial Day parade and celebration honoring those who have died in service to this country.

The parade, of which the Whidbey News-Times is a sponsor, has been a tradition for more than 40 years. The procession begins at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 26 in historic downtown Coupeville along Front and Coveland streets.

Planned after the parade is a remembrance ceremony at noon in Coupeville Town Park. Afterward, a free town picnic will be served by Central Whidbey Lions.

The picnic is sponsored by Prairie Center Red Apple.

Last year, there were 72 entries in the parade, including World War II veterans, the Coupeville High School band and other local community groups.

This year, the parade will be led by a Color Guard, Coupeville High School Band, the mayor of Coupeville and Capt. Geoffery Moore, commanding officer for Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

Grand Marshal for the parade this year is Sal Rizzo, a 90-year-old Central Whidbey resident and veteran who served in served the Marine Corps.

Other entries include patriotic floats, local politicians, antique cars, animals and the fire department with fire trucks.