New York City – The route along Fifth Avenue in New York City stretched from 44thto 79thstreets. Over 150,000 people were marching in the parade included politicians, firefighters, police, military, marching bands, colleges, plumbers-steamfitters and many other professions. The route was lined with green hats and Irish flags with over two million spectators for the 256thAnnual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
This year’s Grand Marshall was Michael Dowling. Eminence, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York was outside Saint Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue waving to the participants in the parade and blessing those that came over to him. NYPD Commissioner James O’Neill celebrated his Irish heritage. Mayor Bill de Blasio and Gov. Cuomo marched in the parade were among the politicians. The parade was dedicated to New York State Police and the Catholic charities as they recognized their 100thyears. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade recognized and honored NYPD Detective Steven McDonald who died last year and members of the FDNY honored EMT Yadira Arroyo who was killed Thursday evening. Mitchell Walters/Nancy Ann Peterson