Crowds line up for 66th Veterans Day Parade in Media, Pa.

MEDIA, Pa. (WPVI) -- Despite the cold, windy weather, people lined the parade route in Media for the 66th Veterans Day Parade on Tuesday.

The town held its first Veterans Day Parade in 1960, and that tradition of appreciation has continued ever since.

The parade's grand marshal, Ed Buffman, a 100-year-old Navy veteran of World War II, had the admiration of both civilians and service members.

"Mr. Buffman is a member of the 'Greatest Generation.' I can't hold a candle to that," said Retired Army Servicemember, Bill West.

But Buffman would rather not keep the focus on himself.

The parade featured classic cars, Corvettes carrying veterans, local groups marching and six bands playing patriotic songs.

A group of Vietnam veterans led the way on their motorcycles, as they received a long-overdue "thank you" from the crowd.

"It does mean a lot," said Chuck Holland with Vietnam Vets USA. "It kind of makes you think of the past a bit, but honestly, we're grateful for all the thank-yous and just glad to be home safe. "

The U.S. Veterans Legacy Project organized the parade and the program that followed. The display of gratitude was heartwarming, even if the weather wasn't so warm.

"Even though it's 35 degrees and freezing cold out here, this is nothing compared to what they went through and to honor them in this way," said Alisha McKinzie of New Castle, Delaware.

Her father is a Vietnam veteran.

Some parade attendees came to show their pride as veterans, while others came to honor the memory of a veteran.

"This is emotional for us because my husband just died in June, so to come out here to honor him, cherish these moments," said Alicia Sabre of Norwood, Pennsylvania.

Attendees just hope the next generation doesn't let the tradition fade.

"Years ago, this street was lined, two deep, three deep," said Pat Bennett of Claymont, Delaware. "It was really a big turnout. And each year it gets a little less, and it's just sad."

It's a cause the parade's grand marshal takes beyond today by making sure the youth know and appreciate the sacrifice of veterans.

"That's what we want to do; bring up history," said Buffman. "That's what we are. Living history."