Written by: Albert Terc
Photos: Albert Terc
Photo Credit: Juliana E. Muchinyi
Veteran’s Day in NYC is always a special place to be. After all it was the birthplace of the event originally known as Armistice Day back in 1919 at the end of The Great War, World War 1. Since then, it has evolved into Veteran’s Day to honor those who wore the cloth to serve and protect our great nation. All of the armed forces send their representatives to make the event one of national pride. Well over 100 floats with veterans from WW2, The Korean War, The Vietnam War, Iraq/Afghanistan War waving to cheering and thankful parade revelers. It really was a great site to see and only NYC can do it the way it should be done…topnotch.
Before the parade kicked off at 12:30PM, there was a traditional ceremony held at Madison Park by the Eternal Light Flagstaff, where the first dedication was held over 100 years ago. The laying of the wreaths was performed by military personnel. Several speakers told great stories of inspiration and patriotism but none greater than this years Grand Marshall, Marine Corps Sgt. Dakota Meyer, the first living Marine to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is a true hero and his speech touched upon those watching the parade should know with the current people that wear the cloth that represent our country that democracy is safe and our hopes and dreams came become reality. Once the parade kicked off, one of the best sights was a World War 2 veteran being wheeled up the parade route by Mayor Adams. Each year a branch of the military gets the honor of being front and center. This year, the Marine Corp brought their best as they always do. They led with Marine Corp Bugle and Drum Marching Band. They set the stage for what would be a patriotic and proud day. Semper Fi.
Each branch of the Armed Forces sends musical bands to get the crowd feeling patriotic with some lively tunes. High school marching bands made a great contribution to the event. Several marching groups provided desperately needed services to veterans. Some of the larger groups are Operation Mend, Wounded Warrior Project, Sarflag and Black Veterans for Social Justice. They all help to keep veterans well in mind, body and spirit. Closing out the parade are the juvies. The young recruits coming up as Reserves or in a military academy. From what I saw, Sgt. Dakota Meyer was correct, we are in good hands and democracy is safe.
Related Videos:
Veterans Day :
Armed Forces Band Highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3ytGJC1Bho
US Marine Corp Drum and Bugle Band: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXuFezXe33M
FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-9Il9oJ8k8
NYC Parade Life 