The Chatham Independence Day Parade Committee is deeply honored to announce that Sgt. John Zippo, U.S. Army, Ret., Chatham’s oldest Veteran, will serve as the Grand Marshal for this year’s Independence Day Parade. At 102 years young, the South Chatham resident is Chatham’s oldest living veteran, embodying the very definition of patriotism, resilience, and hometown devotion.
This year’s parade theme, “Anchored in Freedom: Timeless Tides & Traditions” finds its perfect representation in Sgt. Zippo. His life is a testament to the extraordinary tradition of service—both to his country on the world stage and to his family right here on the Cape. Serving with the Army’s legendary First Infantry Division in Germany during World War II, Sgt. Zippo’s military service took a historic turn when, instead of being sent home, he was assigned as a guard for the Nuremberg trials. In that role, he famously stood watch over the imprisoned architects of the Third Reich.
Yet, for all his historic military exploits, John often notes that his survival in the war was a blessing meant for a higher purpose closer to home. After returning from Europe, John made a life for his family and eventually came to Chatham and became a fiercely dedicated caregiver to his special-needs son—a role he fulfilled with the same quiet strength and loyalty he gave to his country.
“Sgt. John Zippo represents the very best of the Greatest Generation,” said the Parade Committee. “His bravery in uniform is matched only by his kindness as a neighbor and his devotion as a father. We are profoundly humbled to have him lead our parade.”
Please join us in celebrating and thanking Sgt. John Zippo for his lifetime of service, sacrifice, and love for our community.
