Al Severson named grand marshal of parade

Al Severson works the microphone during a past Albany Veterans Parade. File Photo

Al Severson, who announced the Albany Veterans Day Parade for 31 years, won’t be behind the mic for this year’s event.

But Severson, 75, is suffering health problems and will not be able to attend this year, but he will be present in spirit – he’s been chosen the grand marshal for the 75th annual parade.

Severson served in the Oregon National Guard right out of Sweet Home High School, starting in the fall of…