Brookline Boulevard has been the scene of the annual Memorial Day Parade for many, many years. It is chance to get out and pay our respects to fallen heroes from the many conflicts that have arisen over the past century. It is also an opportunity to show our support for our soldiers and veterans of the present engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Many of our local citizenry are veterans with military service in World War I, World Way II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, and the present War on Terror. Some have never come back, making the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that America remains free and strong.

We honor these individuals on the last Monday of each May, and the Memorial Day Parade is a chance for all Brookliners to say "Thank You" to their fellow neighbors and veterans.

These photos capture the Memorial Day Parade back in 1942, when the United States was gearing up for ultimate victory against the Empire of Japan and Nazi Germany in World War II. Brookliners were out in force to show their solidarity and determination to prevail in the largest conflict the world had ever seen.

The photos also provide an interesting look back in time at Brookline Boulevard and some of the businesses and storefronts that bring back memories of days gone by. Isaly's sticks out as one such flashback. There are many others. Click on the photos to enlarge the image and take a look at Brookline's not so distant past.

Special thanks to Doris Anderson Morrison for providing these wonderful pictures.