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IPSWICH — June 6 will mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day, one of the most complex operations of World War II.
Although tiny in comparison, the Ipswich commemoration of the Normandy Invasion is just as ambitious to local organizers.
Set for Saturday, June 8, the parade route has just been announced, and … let’s just say it will involve some traffic disruption.
The 1.5-mile route will start at the high school and work its way along High Street and Central Street to pass a reviewing stand at Market Street before the group breaks up on South Main Street.
Meanwhile, Market Street will be closed to traffic to create a block party.
A number of bands have be signed up for the parade, along with classic cars and a working World War II Sherman tank and halftrack.
The American Heritage Museum in Hudson, home to more than 90 World War II military tanks, will provide the hardware.
An organizing committee made up of all the local veterans’ groups, police and fire departments, and business and civic organizations is working to add even more to the parade.
Many more confirmations are expected over the coming weeks, organizers said.
Commenting on how big it will be, VFW commander Larry Jordan told a recent chamber of commerce meeting, “If everybody shows up for the parade, bring supper.”
On parade day, Market Street will be closed off to create a pedestrian block party. There will be bands at the Take Out Terrace and a beer garden nearby at the corner of Union and Market streets.
In the meantime, organizers have scheduled a number of concerts to pay for expenses. Anyone is interested in volunteering or fundraising should contact Larry Jordan at lhjusmc@gmail.com.
Fundraising events
April 14: Cape Ann Bowling fundraiser
April 27: Psychedelic Relics and silent auction at True North Ales
May 19: Cape Ann Big Band and Northshore Men’s Chorus at Castle Hill
May 23: Home Grown Market information booth, South Main Street, Ipswich
June 1: All-faiths Mass at Our Lady of Hope, Ipswich
June 6: North Shore Philharmonic Orchestra, Dolan Performing Arts Center, Ipswich
June 8: D-Day parade and block party
