The annual New York City Veterans Day Parade is back to being an in-person event this year.
Veterans representing every American military branch and generation of service since World War II will march up Fifth Avenue on Nov. 11. The 102nd annual parade, produced by the United War Veterans Council, will mark the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and the Global War on Terror, as well as the 30th anniversary of Operation Desert Storm. It is the largest Veterans Day event in the country.
“We look forward to returning in person to mark the 20th anniversary of 9/11 and the War on Terror, and the 30th anniversary of Operation Desert Storm,” said UWVC President and Executive Director Mark Otto. “These milestones represent critical moments in our nation’s history when brave men and women made great sacrifices to defend our country. We know that New Yorkers are eager to show their support for all of our veterans, and to welcome the Parade back to Fifth Avenue.”
Parade grand marshal, representing the U.S. Air Force – this year’s featured service – is Air Force veteran Kevin Carrick, a retired Senior Master Sergeant who served for over two decades as an elite pararescueman (“PJ”) with the 106th Rescue Wing based in Westhampton, Long Island. These elite but little-known specialists are the only Special Forces members dedicated to saving lives.
Related
This year’s parade features nearly 200 marching units, including veteran groups, service providers, military units, student veterans, and veteran employee groups, JROTC, and more.
Marching bands, floats, and vintage vehicles will also take part in the parade. In addition to the grand marshal, the parade will welcome back U.S. Marine Corps Desert Storm hero and 2019 Emeritus Grand Marshall Eddie Ray.
The event, which takes place rain or shine, begins at 12:30 p.m. and will end around 3:30 pm. It will proceed on its traditional route on Fifth Avenue, stepping off at 28th street and going north to 45th Street, subject to final participation and COVID-19 adjustments.
Related
Spectators can view the parade on Fifth Avenue, from 29th Street to its endpoint. It will be broadcast live on TV and online on WABC-TV from 12:30 to 3 p.m.
For additional information, visit here.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.