Greeks celebrate in Warren

WARREN — Being 91 years old has done little to break Tom P. Vouvounas’   stride.

For the last seven years, he has marched in annual parades in Warren — sometimes encountering rain, snow and cold — that have been set up to celebrate the independence of Greece from Turkish rule nearly 200 years ago. Today, he kept the tradition intact.

Wearing his World War II uniform adorned with several medals and stars, Vouvounas of Warren, who served in the Army’s 83rd Infantry division, held the hand of 7-year-old Saidrea Crites, one of his 10 great-grandchildren. Among his medals are a Purple Heart for bravery after having been wounded during the invasion of France in 1944, and one for good conduct.

“We’re celebrating the liberation of Greece and the Annunciation of St. Mary,” he said about his participation in today’s seventh annual Greek Independence Day Parade and Celebration. The Warren area is the home to many residents of Greek ancestry.

Before embarking on the half-mile march, the 400 or so participants, many of whom carried light blue and white Greek flags, attended services at St. Demetrios Hellenic Orthodox Church, 429 High St. This year’s turnout was nearly double that of last year’s, a few organizers said.

For the complete story, read Monday's Vindicator and Vindy.com.