(COLORADO SPRINGS)—The snowstorm ended on Saturday, Nov. 9, just in time for Colorado Springs’ annual Veterans Day parade. The parade honors the sacrifices of veterans and active-duty military personnel stationed at the city’s five local installations.
After a call for participants, the parade reached full capacity with more than 100 entries, including local veteran organizations, college and high school ROTC programs, and nearly every military branch.
The Air Force Academy Band and the 4th Infantry Division Army Band from Fort Carson led the procession down Tejon Street, performing together. Lieutenant General David Miller from U.S. Space Command served as grand marshal, and FOX21 Morning News anchor Craig Coffey emceed the event.
Hundreds of community members attended to pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve the nation.
“I just came out here to say thank you to the veterans and for all that they have done for our country,” said “I have family members and friends who are veterans, and I’m just grateful that they have given us a country like we have and that we have the freedoms that we have. And I wanted to show my red, white, and blue colors.”
The annual event almost didn’t happen after being canceled due to low participation, but the parade’s original organizer and the city stepped in to revive it.
“I think as a community coming together like this was fantastic. I think it showed a lot of support,” said Leroy Trusty, a U.S. Air Force veteran. “A lot of folks needed to hear this and see this and be encouraged.”
